FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 7th, 2026
Editors Note: Photo(s) Attached Suggested Caption: Kolton Reasy 2026 PLI
Kolton Reasy selected for 2026 Pork Leaders Institute
Kolton Reasy, a dedicated member of Pennsylvania’s swine industry, has been selected to join the 2026 class of the Pork Leadership Institute (PLI). Reasy grew up in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, where he developed a strong interest in the pork industry through hands-on involvement in breeding and raising show pigs. That early experience sparked his passion for agriculture and led him to pursue a career in pork production.
Reasy attended Delaware Valley University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science with a specialization in Livestock Science and Management. Following graduation, he was accepted into the Manager Trainee Program at Country View Family Farms, gaining comprehensive experience across all stages of pork production. He continues to advance within the company and currently serves as an Assistant Manager at one of Country View’s sow units.
Reasy credits mentors Courtney Gray, Ben Barcovtch, and Sarah Lazar for their guidance and support throughout his career.
Funded by the National Pork Board (NPB) and the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), the Pork Leadership Institute is a premier leadership development program focused on preparing individuals to serve as effective voices for the U.S. pork industry. The program is designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the industry as a whole and equip them to step into leadership roles that represent pork producers at both the state and national levels. Many alumni of the program continue their involvement through service on state pork boards and national committees, with a significant portion of NPB and NPPC board members being PLI graduates.
Through comprehensive education and hands-on experiences, PLI builds participant knowledge in key areas including public policy, trade, sustainability, animal health, and industry communications. In addition to technical learning, the program emphasizes leadership development and relationship-building, allowing participants to leave with a strong professional network and the skills needed to confidently advocate for the future of the pork industry.
“I am excited for the opportunity to broaden my understanding of the pork industry beyond on-farm production and become more involved in leadership and advocacy efforts that support producers,” Reasy said. “PLI will allow me to gain valuable insight into policy development, consumer engagement, and industry initiatives, while building relationships with others who are committed to advancing U.S. pork production.”
To learn more about the PA Pork Producers Council visit www.whypapork.com or follow along on social media @whypapork.
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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market.
