Mike Tokach, Ph.D., and Lisa Tokach, DVM, have devoted their combined 70-year professional careers to advancing the pork industry. While their career paths differed, both Tokachs’ prolifically contributed to the industry through their professional commitments and successes. Together, they have served at the local, state and national levels of the pork industry, building connections and advancing their fields through education, research and collaboration with pork producers, veterinarians and swine nutritionists worldwide.
Advancing the Science of Swine Nutrition
After completing his doctorate in swine nutrition at the University of Minnesota in 1991, Mike began his career at Kansas State University. Throughout the next three decades, he contributed to the field as a researcher, educator and extension specialist. As part of the K-State Applied Swine Nutrition Team, he authored over a thousand scientific and extension articles, secured research funding and grants and lectured around the world, all to shape the science and practice of swine nutrition.
Throughout his time at the university, Mike mentored a generation of students and visiting professors. Mike’s mentees are now involved in nutrition, marketing, sales and research roles within the pork industry. He also served on several National Pork Board committees, helping guide key initiatives and standards for the industry.
A Trailblazer in Swine Medicine
Lisa earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota in 1990, and began practicing with Abilene Animal Hospital in Abilene, Kansas, after graduation. As one of the early women in her field, she set an example for others by showing that a career in swine medicine could be both rewarding and inclusive.
Lisa was involved in all facets of her clients’ production systems and helped adopt and implement Pork Quality Assurance® Plus and Transport Quality Assurance® training practices. Lisa has been a steady advocate for animal welfare and producer education, taking an active role in training and leadership within the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, where she served as president in 2002.
Leadership, Learning and Industry Collaboration
Lisa’s commitment to ongoing learning led to earning her certification in Swine Health Management and become a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. She served as an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She was also a founding member of the Kansas Swine Alliance Group and served as its president.
A Lasting Legacy
Mike and Lisa retired in early 2026 and relocated to northern Minnesota, where they spend time with family, raise service dogs, tend their bee hives and trail ride with their two mules. Even in retirement, they remain committed to always learning and maintaining the relationships they’ve built over a lifetime of service to the pork industry.
Listen to Tokach and his colleague, Bob Goodband, on a recent episode of The PORK Podcast.
