Neil Dierks Scholarship
Offered by National Pork Producers Council
About This Scholarship
The Neil Dierks Scholarship is named for the National Pork Producers Council's longtime chief executive, who led the organization for more than two decades. Funded through the National Pork Industry Foundation, it awards one $5,000 scholarship each year to a graduate student in a swine program - one of the few awards in animal agriculture aimed squarely at master's and doctoral students rather than undergraduates.
The application is essay-heavy by design. Candidates write a 500-600 word essay demonstrating understanding of a pork industry issue and proposing solutions, plus shorter essays (minimum 300 words each) on the role they envision for themselves after graduation and on the industry leaders they most respect. Judges score essays on clarity and expression, persuasiveness, originality, and relevance, so polished writing matters as much as technical knowledge.
Students who have applied for acceptance to a graduate swine program but are not yet enrolled may also apply, which makes this a realistic option for seniors committed to graduate study. The recipient is announced at the National Pork Industry Forum in March.
Eligibility
- Current graduate student in a swine program, or student who has applied for acceptance to one
- Graduate studies supporting the pork industry (research, production, veterinary, extension, and related fields)
- Multiple essays required (500-600 word issue essay plus two 300+ word essays)
- Two letters of reference from current or former professors or industry professionals
How To Apply
- Complete the cover sheet with contact and educational information, write the three required essays, and collect two reference letters. Submit everything via the online form on nppc.org, by email to [email protected], or by mail to NPPC by December 18, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm a college senior applying to grad school - can I apply?
Yes. The scholarship accepts students who have applied for acceptance to a graduate swine program as well as those already enrolled.
How is the winner chosen?
Essays are judged on clarity and expression, persuasiveness, originality, and relevance to the topic. The application includes a pork-industry issue essay and shorter essays about your career plans and the leaders you respect.
When is the recipient announced?
At the National Pork Industry Forum, held March 3-5, 2027 in Arlington, Texas.