Mark Wright, President of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association (NPPA) presided over the 2023 annual meeting of the Association membership. The Membership chose two new directors and re-confirmed Justin Hankins of Omaha as First Alternate. Austin Zimmerman of Wymore and Josh Wendt of Leigh will begin serving a two-year term. President Wright offered his congratulations to the new members and added, “I am very pleased that you have decided to accept a position on our board and look forward to working with you as we ensure continued opportunities and success for Nebraska’s pork farmers”.
Austin Zimmerman, Wymore: Austin, his wife Teri, and son live on a farm near Wymore. He is part of Zimmerman Hog Farms, located just west of Beatrice. The Zimmermans have a specialized pig operation, raising exhibition and breeding stock. Austin started showing pigs at a young age and is still very involved in the show pig industry. Austin is also the general manager for Midwest Livestock systems.
Josh Wendt, Leigh: Josh is a 3rd generation livestock farmer from Leigh. He and his wife, Ally have 2 boys. He has been involved with livestock and raising pigs his entire life. Currently Josh is involved in the family farming operation where they raise pigs, feed cattle, have a cow-calf operation and farm row crops. He is excited to join the NPPA Board and become more involved in the pork industry.
Justin Hankins, Omaha: Justin is a credit analyst at Farm Credit Services of America, specializing in the Agribusiness Capital Swine & Beef division of the company, with over 15 years in the banking and finance world. His education at the University of Nebraska–Kearney includes a BS in Business Administration with emphasis in management and a minor in economics. He also attended the Iowa State University School of Ag Banking.
Leaving the Board of Directors is Aaron Doerr of Creighton. Aaron comes from a distinguished line of pork producers and will be greatly missed as a director. “We extend our best wishes and future success to Aaron”, stated President Wright.
