The Pork Leadership Institute (PLI) Class of 2026 includes 19 individuals from across the country who have been selected to join the program, representing a diverse group of leaders ready to drive innovation, advocacy, and progress within the pork sector. This program led by National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and the National Pork Board (NPB) equips pork producers with the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead the industry forward. PLI cultivates leaders who will champion the industry and advocate for its continued success.
The Class of 2026 includes:
Iowa - Ryan Bartachek
Iowa - Macie Reeb
Idaho - Rick Roper
Illinois - Emmalee Haege
Illinois - Tyler Main
Indiana - Ethan Baldwin
Minnesota - Matt Boerboom
Missouri - Morgan Weinrich
Mississippi - Donny Ray
North Carolina - Jennifer Hasty
North Carolina - Yolanda Castelo
Nebraska - Austin Zimmerman
Ohio - Kevin Stuckey
Ohio - Stacey Voight
Oklahoma - Suzanne Genova
Pennsylvania - Kolton Reasy
South Dakota - Tanya Torguson
Tennessee - Katie Sherman
Texas - Clay Eastwood
“As we welcome the Class of 2026, it’s exciting to see these producers stepping up to lead for their farms, their communities, and the industry,” says Bryan Humphreys, NPPC CEO. “The Pork Leadership Institute gives them the tools and know-how to tackle the challenges that really matter-from policy and trade to sharing the story of pork production with neighbors and lawmakers. These graduates are already in the trenches, and this program helps them roll up their sleeves even further to speak up for producers, strengthen their operations, and keep the industry resilient for years to come.”
The one-year PLI program is a “comprehensive leadership development initiative” that features five intensive sessions covering critical industry knowledge and advocacy skills. Participants gain insight into federal legislative and regulatory processes, the importance of international trade, and the workings of national and state pork organizations. In addition, hands-on media and communications training equips graduates to be confident and effective voices for the industry.
Learn more about the program and its impact at Pork Leadership Institute.
Read More About PLI:
How a Grocery Store and a Packing Plant Opened Two Pig Farmers’ Perspectives
