The 2025 Iowa Pork Congress saw a record-breaking fundraising effort for student scholarships in the pork industry. This year ¢â‚¬â„¢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.


¢â‚¬Å“We are incredibly grateful to the generous individuals and organizations that contributed to this year ¢â‚¬â„¢s auction, ¢â‚¬ � said Aaron Juergens, president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA). ¢â‚¬Å“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 ¢â‚¬â„¢t be happier with the results. ¢â‚¬ �


One of the most sought-after items was a CINCH World ¢â‚¬â„¢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 ¢â‚¬â€�both part of the popular ¢â‚¬Å“Purchase Moore Hamann Bacon ¢â‚¬ � promotional campaign ¢â‚¬â€�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 ¢â‚¬â„¢s pork producers ¢â‚¬â€�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.