Two of our pork leaders spent time in DC this week beyond just the Legislative Action Conference (LAC) agenda - as Joe Popplewell participated in his first official meetings as a National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) board member, and Dr. Suzanne Genova completed her second training session as a 2026 Pork Leadership Institute (PLI) member.

About their packed week representing Oklahoma in these national leadership roles, Joe and Dr. Genova had the following to share:

“I have been fortunate to participate in LAC several times over the years," Joe Popplewell shared. "But, this week was eye-opening as my first time experiencing this trip as a board member for NPPC. Representing Oklahoma among this national group of leaders provided wisdom from other states and the key NPPC staff members our industry relies on to lead our policy efforts and protect our right to farm. ”

We are proud of Joe for this national leadership role, and we look forward to his continued insight as he represents Oklahoma on the NPPC board until 2028.

“Flying to DC this week for the second leg my year-long participation in PLI and representing our industry during LAC has been a great experience both professionally and personally," Dr. Genova said reflecting on her week. "I feel proud to be an Oklahoman and really enjoyed the opportunity to meet with our state’s representatives to educate them about pressing issues effecting pork and agriculture, while thanking them for their continued support.”

Thank you to Dr. Genova for stepping up to learn and grow within the broader pork industry through this experience!