February 22, 2025 7:53 AM

The South Dakota Pork Ambassador Program is designed to provide an opportunity to become actively involved in the South Dakota pork industry. The program helps develop strong relationships with both pork producers and allied industry members. It is an opportunity to learn about pork production, the industry, and to improve communication and leadership skills. The main goal of the Pork Ambassador Program is to promote the South Dakota Pork Producers Council and the swine industry at various events. The successful candidate will gain valuable experience and develop relationships that will last a lifetime.

2025 Pork Ambassador Applications are CLOSED

If you have any questions, contact Abbey Riemenschneider at abbeyr@sdppc.org or 605-332-1600.

Applications for the Pork Ambassador Program should be sent to:

South Dakota Pork Producers Council
ATTN: Abbey Riemenschneider
4615 West Homefield Drive
Sioux Falls, SD 57106

Laney Andrews

Laney is the daughter of Jim and Michelle Andrews of Beresford, SD. Laney is a senior at Beresford High School, and plans to attend South Dakota State University for Agricultural Education and in the future Ag Policy and Law. She plans to teach and be an FFA advisor, and then do something political like lobbying for different agricultural groups. Laney said she applied for the ambassador program because it offers a unique opportunity to gain knowledge on many aspects of the pork industry. It’s one step in continuously learning and being an agricultural advocate, while allowing her to share her passion with others. Laney hopes to make a positive impact for the Council, and utilize the knowledge she will learn and use it in her career and on her family’s farm.

Preston Mattheis

Preston is the son of Mike and Amy Mattheis of Parkston, SD. He is currently a sophomore at South Dakota State University where he is majoring in Animal Science. Preston plans on using his degree to be involved in the nutrition and reproduction side of the livestock industry. Preston also plans to go back to his family’s farm at some time in the future. Preston says the Ambassador program will help him gain leadership and understanding on how to be an advocate for the pork industry. It will help him gain connections and relations to continue promoting pork not only in the commercial industry but in show industry as well.

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