News : Swine Scholars Auction Raises Record Amount for Iowa Students

 The 2025 Iowa Pork Congress saw a record-breaking fundraising effort for student scholarships in the pork industry. This year's Dollars for Swine Scholars Auction raised an impressive $62,511, surpassing the previous record of $61,525 set in 2023.

Held in January at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, the auction was a highlight of the Iowa Pork Congress festivities. Proceeds from the event will support scholarships for incoming freshmen, returning students, graduate fellowships, and interns pursuing careers in the pork industry.

"We are incredibly grateful to the generous individuals and organizations that contributed to this year's auction," said Aaron Juergens, president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA). "This event is about investing in the future of the pork industry by supporting the next generation. It was a fantastic night, and we couldn't be happier with the results."

One of the most sought-after items was a CINCH World's Toughest Rodeo package, donated by the Iowa Events Center, which fetched the highest bid of $4,100.

Adding to the excitement, Iowa State Cyclone football players Tyler Moore and Caleb Bacon-both part of the popular "Purchase Moore Hamann Bacon" promotional campaign-were on hand to sign autographs, meet attendees, and help auction their autographed jerseys. Their efforts contributed an additional $3,300 to the scholarship fund.

Other top-selling items included:

*        Gift certificates from Hog Slat

*        A pork-themed t-shirt quilt handcrafted by IPPA Producer Education Director Zoey Dinkla

*        A unique Traeger grill shaped like a pig, generously donated by Kevin and Lisa Rasmussen

The Dollars for Swine Scholars Auction was organized by the Iowa Pork Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting Iowa's pork producers-particularly by fostering opportunities for young people in the industry.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this auction a record-breaking success! Your support is shaping the future of the pork industry, one scholar at a time.

 

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About the Iowa Pork Producers Association 

The mission of the Iowa Pork Producers Association is promoting, educating, and providing a leading voice for a sustainable, socially responsible, and globally competitive pork industry.