In 2022, Dave Preisler retired from a successful 28-year career leading the Minnesota Pork Producers Association and advancing Minnesota’s agricultural community. On March 13, the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and National Pork Board awarded Preisler with the distinguished Paulson-Whitmore State Executive Award for his exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing the pork industry.
“Receiving this award is really humbling, especially as you look at the list of people who have received it before,” Preisler says. “That list is filled with people that I have looked up to over the years and considered many of them as my mentors. Again, I am incredibly thankful and can’t think of better people to work with and to work for.”
Growing up in northwestern Minnesota, Preisler’s passion was sparked early in life by educators and programs like FFA. He started his career as a high school agriculture teacher before transitioning to the University of Minnesota Extension, where he developed relationships that would shape his lifelong advocacy for farmers.
Preisler kicked off his career with the Minnesota Pork Producers Association in 1994, working tirelessly to shape policy, foster innovation and navigate industry challenges.
“At every step of his career, Dave Preisler has been a steadfast advocate for farmers, ensuring our voices were heard and our needs addressed,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC president and pork producer from Easton, Minn. “His leadership, particularly during times of crisis, has been instrumental in strengthening Minnesota’s pork industry and beyond. This recognition is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the positive influence he has had on producers nationwide.”
His leadership was critical during the COVID-19 pandemic when disruptions threatened farmers’ livelihoods, NPPC says. Preisler played a pivotal role in securing resources, facilitating communication, and ensuring stability within the supply chain.
“Dave treats everybody equally, and he is consistently composed, steady and the logical voice of reason, no matter the turbulence,” says Brett Kaysen, senior vice president of producer and state engagement for NPB. “His impact is beyond Minnesota’s borders.”
Preisler’s ability to bridge the gap between farmers, policymakers and industry stakeholders has strengthened the pork industry nationwide.
“Some of my fondest memories were the wins that that occurred, whether in our state house or in Washington, DC, where you could see the culmination of work,” he says. “None of those things happen overnight. Often, they take years to cultivate.”
After retiring from Minnesota Pork in 2022, he continues to serve agriculture as a Le Sueur County commissioner, remaining a steadfast advocate for rural communities.
“Sitting in a county commissioner’s chair, one of the biggest pieces of advice I have for pork producers is to be a good neighbor. We sit in a position where we can grant permits for farms. And whether it’s for a farm, Airbnb, house, or development, the value proposition of being a good neighbor, and how that fits into being able to do your business on a daily basis, is something that I think ends up being underestimated.”
Life is still busy, but now he says it’s more on his he and his wife’s terms.
“We are traveling and getting to spend time with our three grandchildren who all live relatively close by,” he says. “We get the opportunity to babysit and spend time with them. If there’s a way to get up in the morning in a good mood, go and babysit. That will put a smile on your face.”
The Paulson-Whitmore State Executive Award is presented annually at the National Pork Industry Forum, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to their state’s pork industry and to the broader mission of NPPC and National Pork Board. Named after influential past state executives Don Paulson of Minnesota and Rex Whitmore of Wisconsin, the award underscores the essential role of state organizations in advancing the pork industry’s success.
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