The National Pork Producers Council elected new officers and board members to lead the organization through the 2025-2026 term as part of the organization’s annual meeting March 13 in Orlando, Florida.
These seasoned leaders will continue to advocate for policies benefiting U.S. pork producers, ensuring the industry’s growth, sustainability, and resilience on a national level.
“The strength of NPPC lies in the leadership and vision of those who serve,” said NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys. “Our newly elected officers and board members bring decades of experience and a deep commitment to advancing and defending the interests of U.S. pork producers. Their leadership will be instrumental as we tackle challenges, drive progress, and ensure a strong future for our industry.”
Duane Stateler, McComb, Ohio, was elected president. Stateler is a fifth-generation pork producer, operates Stateler Family Farms alongside his son, Anthony. He has been actively involved in national and state-level agricultural policy discussions and serves as a strong voice for producers on sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Rob Brenneman, Washington, Iowa, was selected as president-elect. Brenneman owns and operates Brenneman Pork, a multi-generational family farm. A dedicated industry advocate, he has served on the NPPC board of directors since 2021 and held leadership roles with the National Pork Board and Iowa Pork Producers Association.
Pat Hord, Bucyrus, Ohio, was selected as a vice president. As CEO of Hord Family Farms, Hord has led a diversified agricultural operation, overseeing the growth of the family business while remaining involved in industry policy. He has been a key advocate for U.S. pork producers, shaping policy at the national level through his work with NPPC committees.
Lori Stevermer, Easton, Minnesota, became immediate past president. As co-owner of Trails End Farm, Stevermer has long been involved in pork industry leadership, advocating for producers at the state and national levels. She has represented U.S. pork producers in trade discussions and policy forums, ensuring their interests are well-represented.
With gratitude and appreciation, NPPC extends thanks to departing board members Scott Hays, Dwight Mogler and Russ Vering for their dedicated service and significant contributions to the organization.
Craig Edsill, Ambler, Pennsylvania, was re-elected as representative for the Packer Processor Industry Council. Edsill is the CEO and chairman of Clemens Family Corporation, a leader in the pork industry known for its commitment to sustainable production practices and innovation. He continues to be an advocate for policies that strengthen the industry and protect the interests of pork producers, serving on various NPPC committees.
Newly elected NPPC board members
John Anderson, Belgrade, Minnesota, is a lifelong pork producer and leader of Anderson Family Farms, a diversified operation including farrow-to-finish pork and crop production. With years of experience in industry advocacy, succession planning, and risk management, he is committed to advancing the pork industry and ensuring its future sustainability.
Trish Cook, Winthrop, Iowa, is a co-owner of CBL Farms and Cook Brothers Ltd. and has served in leadership roles with the Iowa Pork Producers Association. She is committed to advocating for policies that protect U.S. pork producers and ensure the industry’s long-term viability.
Jackie Bowman Ponder, Greenwood, Indiana, combines legal expertise and hands-on experience in pork production to advocate for policies that promote the industry’s growth. She co-owns Bowman Family Holdings, Inc., overseeing operations, legal compliance, and government relations while managing a diverse farming operation.
Current NPPC board of directors
Steve Malakowsky, Wells, Minnesota (Allied Industry director); Francis Forst, Lamar, Missouri; Bob Ivey, Beaufort, North Carolina; Todd Marotz, Sleepy Eye, Minnesota; Dr. Jeremy Pittman, Waverly, Virginia; Ed Reed, Three Rivers, Michigan; Jeb Stevens, Osgood, Indiana; and Neill Westerbeek, Clinton, North Carolina.
Pictured above, The 2025-26 National Producers Council board of directors include president Duane Stateler, president-elect Rob Brenneman, vice president Pat Hord, immediate past president Lori Stevermer, Steve Malakowsky, Craig Edsill, John Anderson, Trish Cook, Francis Forst, Bob Ivey, Todd Marotz, Jeremy Pittman, Jackie Bowman Ponder, Ed Reed, Jeb Stevens, and Neill Westerbeek. (Courtesy photo.)
