Darrell Anderson was honored as the recipient of the National Pork Board Distinguished Service Award at the National Pork Industry Forum earlier this month. The award is given annually to recognize the lifelong contribution to the pork industry by an outstanding leader.

“Darrell has provided extraordinary leadership to the pork industry,” said Everett Forkner, a pork producer from Richards, Missouri. “His skill in strategic planning and visionary ideas not only shaped the National Swine Registry, but also helped to develop current and future leaders of the U.S. pork industry.”

Anderson, the former chief executive officer of the National Swine Registry (NSR), grew up on a family farm in southwest Minnesota and attended South Dakota State University. After graduation, he worked in a variety of jobs, including serving as the Extension director in Cottonwood County, Minnesota.

He began working for the Yorkshire Breed Association in 1987, serving as their executive secretary, and was instrumental in developing and growing the Swine Testing and Genetic Evaluation Systems (STAGES). The program became a driving force among swine breeders and a valuable tool for international markets. He also introduced the Tested Best Show at the 1988 World Pork Expo.

In the 1990s, Anderson created the NSR. The Duroc, Hampshire and Yorkshire associations were brought under one registry, with the Landrace association joining later.

While at the National Swine Registry, Anderson also played a monumental role in the formation of the National Junior Swine Association in 2000. The National Junior Swine Association prepares and develops youth to be the future leaders of the purebred swine industry. It has grown to become one of the largest youth livestock organizations.