Agricultural News
Pork Industry Pledges Money for Bill Luce Scholarship Program
Sun, 24 Oct 2010 14:14:24 CDT
The Oklahoma Pork Council formally announces a $50,000 gift to Oklahoma State University's Pickens Legacy Match Scholarship Program in honor of pork industry leader Dr. Bill Luce.
The OPC Board of Directors made the announcement at a special presentation on Friday.
"This scholarship is a unique opportunity to honor an influential leader in the pork industry," said Roy Lee Lindsey, OPC Executive Director. "Dr. Luce has played an integral role in the success of the Oklahoma pork industry. He helped shape an industry through his work with numerous students who showed an immense interest in the pork industry"
Dr. Luce served as Extension Swine Specialist upon joining Oklahoma State University's animal science department in 1968. During his tenure at OSU, he became a leading educational facilitator in the rapid expansion of the swine industry in Oklahoma and resulting economic development in rural Oklahoma.
"Bill cared about both small and large producers and helped the industry grow in Oklahoma," said Dr. Ron Kensinger, OSU animal science department head. "He really cared about people and worked to improve the lives of countless Oklahomans. We are very pleased to know he represented our Department and our University in such a distinguished manner."
Following his retirement from OSU, Dr. Luce joined the Oklahoma Pork Council staff. He was the driving force behind the selection and recognition of many producers as National Environmental Stewards, and he was a constant champion for the Pork Quality Assurance and Youth PQA programs.
"We are fortunate to have leaders who recognize the importance of the swine industry and the success of our students," said Jeff Mencke, OPC President. "As we work toward our fundraising goals for scholarships benefiting the work force in Oklahoma, we are excited to announce our commitment of $50,000 for the Dr. Bill Luce Endowed Scholarships in swine production."
The Oklahoma Pork Council, Seaboard Foods, Tyson Foods' The Pork Group, The Maschhoffs, Roberts Ranch of Oklahoma, Hitch Pork Producers and PIC have pledged $50,000 that will be matched by the Pickens Legacy Scholarship Match program after the OSU Foundation receives the funds following the administration of Mr. Pickens' estate. If the funds can be raised by Feb. 26, 2011, the gift will be matched 2 to 1 allowing the testamentary gift from Mr. Pickens combined with OPC's $50,000 to create a $150,000 endowment in Dr. Luce's name.
"We are extremely appreciative of this wonderful tribute to my husband," Mrs. Nancy Luce said. "He worked tirelessly for the agricultural industry, even at home. He's an exceptionally good person and I am very proud of this honor."
Dr. Bill Luce dedicated his career to the Oklahoma pork industry and he was especially interested in the future of the Industry as well. This is why OPC has created a scholarship in honor of Dr. Bill Luce. The scholarships will be used to recruit the best graduate students in swine production, nutrition, and animal care to Oklahoma State University.
"The Dr. Bill Luce Endowed Scholarship will support future graduate students and will allow faculty at Oklahoma State University to conduct research that is important to the pork industry and to society such as nutrient management, air quality, meat quality and animal well-being," Kensinger said. "We are so grateful to the Oklahoma Pork Council for their generous contribution to endow this lasting tribute to our friend and colleague."
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