The National Pork Board honored Maynard Hogberg, Ph.D., as the recipient of its Distinguished Service Award on March 8. Hogberg is professor and chair of the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University.
The award was presented during the National Pork Industry Forum, the industry's annual business meeting. The award is given annually to recognize the lifelong contribution to the pork industry by an outstanding leader.
"Dr. Hogberg has provided extraordinary leadership to the pork industry," said Sam Hines, Michigan Pork Producers Association executive vice president. "He has brought segments of the industry together to find sustainable solutions that have benefited pork producers nationwide."
Hogberg began his career at Michigan State University, where he was a professor and led the development of swine Extension activities. He eventually went on to serve as the chair of the Department of Animal Science. While at Michigan State, he helped grow the state's pork industry by working with the Michigan Department of Agriculture to create Generally Accepted management Practices for manure nutrient management.
Hogberg was instrumental in the creation of the National Swine Registry. He, along with others, realized that the breed associations were stronger together than apart. In addition to the creation of the National Swine Registry, Hogberg's vision to
engage youth in swine production led to the creation of the National Junior Swine Association, which strives to inspire young people to pursue careers in the pork industry.
Following his time at Michigan State University, Dr. Hogberg became professor and chair of the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University.
"Through his tireless efforts, he took an already strong and highly regarded curriculum to new heights," said Wendy Wintersteen, dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. "Among many accomplishments, he spearheaded construction of the Jeff and Deb Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center, a premier place for students to gain
hands-on experience in animal science."
"Throughout the pork industry, Dr.Hogberg is known for his positive collaboration, commitment to excellence and responsiveness to addressing the needs and concerns of all," Hines said.
