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Bridging the Generation Gap
by Darrell Anderson
The following quote is taken from the 1927 Duroc Sentinel, which at that time was called The National Duroc Breed Pa-per: “The purebred swine business is founded on the honor and integrity of the men whose names appear in the pedigrees of the animals in the herd books of that breed. When any breeder stoops to dishonesty and misstatements, he not only injures others interested in that breed, but he undermines his own business. Sometimes it takes a long time for the slow-going world to discover the dishonest breeder, but as sure as fate, such actions will reflect on the high standing of the breed as well as that of the dishonest man’s work.”
Well, our industry has survived 76 years since Robert J. Evans, editor of that publication, penned those words, but the truth of those words hasn’t changed at all in those many years. I often get asked about who I think will carry on the message of the pedigreed livestock industry, when all of us “old-timers” go by the wayside. Who is going to provide the “bridge” to cross the current generation gap? Do we have the kind of quality young people who will continue to build our industry on the foundation of integrity that has been established by the investment of so many breeders? After reading some of the articles in this special youth issue, I don’t think I need to spend much time worrying about that anymore. Let me tease you with some of the quotes you can read as you look through the various articles in this issue.
We have five NJSA Board Members who will be retiring from their two-year term on the board this year. Let me use them as examples of the outstanding leaders we have in the NJSA, which by the way, is the fastest growing youth organization in all of animal agriculture.
When asked to reflect on his reign as NJSA President, Wrex Phipps said he “hopes to leave behind him an association of members with high morals and integrity, who are willing to stand up for what is right.” He continued, “I want them to look back …and fully understand the importance of a pedigree. I hope they concern themselves with working hard with their livestock projects and look back knowing they did an honest job filled with integrity, rather than doing anything to win or worrying about who won grand champion.” He admitted that being on the NJSA Board “challenged my own beliefs and ethics and has transformed me into more of a breeder than an exhibitor.” If Wrex is representative of the leadership of our NJSA, it would appear our investment in this program is well worth the cost!
Marissa Baker served as vice-president this year, and said “it was a great learning experience and a time of your life you will always remember.” She emphasizes “making the most of the short time you have.” One of her college friends describes Marissa by saying, “she goes at things to get them done and she is not afraid to take control of the situation.” A young NJSA member commented that Marissa is “good at helping people.” It looks like the NJSA has produced another excellent role model that should be an ambassador for our industry for many years to come.
Bryan Rodibaugh represents the results of “bridging at least three generations,” as he gives a lot of his credit to Grandpa Jack as his mentor. He says, “My grandfather is so full of knowledge. He started in this industry with nothing, and built it into a business that would support our family.” Bryan also realizes the importance of his role as a mentor, as he states, “no matter what you think, there is always someone watching. You always have the opportunity to think twice about the decisions you make and how they will affect others involved. Make sure you are proud of the decisions you make.”
Brad Coffman is an excellent example of the passion we need in our future leaders. As his mother commented, “Brad eats, breathes, and lives pigs.” She also is quick to “give credit to the 4-H program for helping Brad develop into a responsible young man. 4-H gave Brad structure in his life and taught him discipline.” She continues, “He has had to face many challenges which have only made him a stronger person. His strong morals and his faith in God have helped him to achieve success in life.” There is little doubt that Brad’s wish of “being a role model for other young people along the way” has been successfully achieved.
Jake Grass is another example of a passionate young breeder that has rich family ties to the purebred industry. A college friend says Jake “has a strong passion for agriculture in general, especially the purebred swine industry. He is enthusiastic and strives to make things around him better.” Jerry Hawton, Jake’s judging team coach had this to say, “Grass has been successful in part due to the tremendous backing and support his family has given him. In addition, Jake is driven and hard working.”
Do you see a trend in these NJSA leaders? High integrity, family support, passion, work ethic, discipline, and a genuine concern for others are common characteristics of these great examples of why the future of the swine industry is in excellent shape. I trust you will enjoy reading all the stories about this next generation in this special youth issue. When you put this magazine down, you’ll be able to join me in agreeing that while there may be a “generation gap,” the bridge is pretty secure to the future!
