NJSA has some of the greatest exhibitors in the country, and we would like to recognize John Ebersole of Duncannon, Pennsylvania.  He is an only child of Glenn and Donna Ebersole. John is working on his bachelor’s degree at Penn State University, where he is a senior majoring in Animal Science with a business option.  John’s favorite breed would have to be Duroc, “I love the durability and growth they give to our herd.”  John says that his favorite show is the NJSA Eastern Regional. Not only because it is the closest for his family to travel to, but it a gathering place for some of my closest friends.” 

John just finished his show career at the 2010 NJSA Eastern Regional where he was high individual in senior skillathon, showmanship, sweepstakes, and had Grand Champion Duroc Gilt which Mr. Dave Kilmer selected for Champion Overall Female. John took home some serious hardware that weekend, including a trailer, but when I asked him what his greatest accomplishment was he said “My greatest accomplishments in the NJSA having been able to exhibit Champion and Reserve Bred and Owned gilts at both the Southeast and Eastern Regional.” Having known John for quite some time, I have always noticed how very grateful he is to the NJSA. He goes on to say that “The most surprising and rewarding experience that I had during my time in the NJSA was when I received the herdsman of the year award in 2007.” John is an incredibly driven and determined person and when I asked him what his plans were for the future he replied “Now that my official show career has come to an end, I intend to remain involved in the swine industry. I plan to help on the family farm and share my past NJSA experiences with local youth by getting them involved in the swine industry and NJSA.”      

John has the ability to light up the room he walks into and he has been an excellent mentor for youth in our organization as well as a great friend to many of us involved in this organization. I have no doubt that John will continue to be highly involved in the swine industry, as an industry leader and breeder. He left me with one last comment, “I would first like to thank my parents for helping me follow my passion of showing and the swine industry. I owe my success to them and for shaping me into the person I am today. Finally I just want to add that NJSA is truly one of the best youth organizations in the country, and I am glad to say I was involved in it.” Thank you for all that you have given us John and good luck in all of your ventures.

Submitted by Hallie Frobose,
2010-2011 NJSA Eastern Director