This week Paul Sundberg received the Distinguished Service Award at the National Pork Industry Forum in Rosemont, Illinois, for his career-long dedication to bettering the pork industry.

Sundberg’s 40-plus year career illustrates his unwavering dedication to animal health and industry innovation. Most recently, he led the industry as the first executive director of the Swine Health Information Center when it was developed with Pork Checkoff funds in 2015. Prior to that, he served America’s pig farmers working for national pork organizations, in addition to practicing veterinary medicine for 10 years.

“Iowa pig farmers congratulate Dr. Sundberg for receiving this award and appreciate his continued dedication to improving swine health,” said Pat McGonegle, CEO of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “Paul has played an integral role in helping the U.S. pork industry take an active approach to dealing with emerging animal disease threats and helping producers be better prepared for a potential outbreak.”

The Distinguished Service Award, presented annually by the National Pork Board, is a fitting tribute to Sundberg's extensive career and contributions to the betterment of the U.S. pork industry. His forward-thinking initiatives, collaboration and leadership in challenging times have set new standards for excellence and integrity within the industry.

“Dr. Sundberg was one of the best bosses you could ever have. He lived by his motto, hire good people, and get out of their way,” says Patrick Webb, assistant chief veterinarian for NPB. “As a boss and mentor, he was always present and supportive. Paul is a strategist, and he could always see the bigger picture and point his staff in the right direction to be the most productive and impactful to the industry in the work they accomplished.”

The support and involvement of Sundberg's wife, Deb, and their daughters, along with their deep-rooted connection to the community, highlight the personal dedication behind his professional achievements. This familial foundation underpins Sundberg's holistic approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and the role of education in fostering the next generation of industry leaders.

“It’s an honor to be recognized with this award,” Sundberg reflected. “I’ve been blessed to have a career working with smart and dedicated Checkoff staff, pork producers, veterinarians, academics and many others.”