CHICAGO — The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) announced the induction of new officers and the election of new members to its board of directors.

“We are thrilled to welcome these accomplished individuals to NPPC’s board of directors,” said Bryan Humphreys, chief executive officer of NPPC. “Their diverse backgrounds and proven track records will provide valuable perspectives and strategic insights as the pork industry navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

NPPC announced Lori Stevermer, co-owner of Trail’s End Farm, Easton, Minn., was elected president of the association. Stevermer has a rich history of advocating for the pork industry at local, state and national levels. She previously served on the executive board of the Minnesota Pork Producers Association. During her year serving as NPPC president-elect, Stevermer exemplified her leadership and commitment to the industry by testifying before Congress, driving a legislative solution on California Proposition 12, and representing the industry at international trade conferences.

Duane Stateler, fifth-generation pork producer and co-operator of Stateler Family Farms, McComb, Ohio, was named NPPC president-elect. He oversees a comprehensive operation that manages 15,600 head annually and oversees 1,600 acres of crop production of corn, soybeans and wheat. Stateler actively represents producers on national committees and engages in various agricultural associations in Ohio.

Serving as the new NPPC vice president is Rob Brenneman, owner and operator of Brenneman Pork, Washington, Iowa. His operation includes around 50,000 sows and markets around 1.5 million pigs annually. Elected to the NPPC board of directors in 2021, Brenneman has served numerous organizations, including the National Pork Board, Iowa Pork Producers Association and Washington County Pork Producers.

Lastly among the officers, Scott Hays, fifth-generation pork producer, Monroe City, Mo., will serve as NPPC immediate past president. Hays represents producers on various state and national committees. Recently, he was named executive director of the Missouri Pork Association.

Joining the NPPC board of directors, serving up to two consecutive three-year terms, are Edward Reed and Neill Westerbeek.

NPPC’s nominating committee for a two-year term include William Knapke and Jason Propst.

NPPC thanked its esteemed departing board members, Terry Wolters and Craig Anderson, for their unwavering commitment, strategic insights and invaluable contributions that have significantly shaped and advanced NPPC’s mission.

Elected at the pork industry’s annual business meeting, the National Pork Industry Forum, the board members will collaborate closely with the existing leadership team to steer NPPC toward achieving its strategic goals and enhancing membership value.