Aubrey Johnson is selected as IPPA Youth Ambassador

“I want my passion for the pork industry to shine while representing pork producers,” said Aubrey Johnson, the 2024 Pork Youth Ambassador for the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA).
Aubrey is the daughter of Ryan and LaRae Johnson of Iowa Falls. Ryan is a longtime gilt development manager for Iowa Select Farms.

Aubrey says she has loved pig farming since she could remember. As a 4-H and FFA member, she enjoyed her involvement in swine projects, and her dad’s enthusiasm also inspired her to advocate for the industry by entering the IPPA Youth Leadership Team contest.

Candidates from across the state competed for Iowa Pork Queen and Pork Youth Ambassador titles during the Iowa Pork Congress. Aubrey said she was surprised and thrilled to be named one of three Iowa Pork Youth Ambassador Team members.

“I want my year of service to be both impactful and memorable,” says Aubrey. “My focus will be engaging with Iowa’s youth and advocating for pork and pig farming on social media.”

She is a senior at Iowa Falls-Alden High School. Aubrey has served in numerous officer positions for her FFA chapter and 4-H club. After graduation, she plans to pursue a degree in agriculture at Ellsworth Community College, possibly in communications or agricultural business.
IPPA Youth Leadership Team contestants are judged on their pork and pig production knowledge through interviews and a written test about pork industry topics. Their previous community involvement and experience are also considered.

Aubrey joins Iowa Pork Queen Lilly Bru of Gladbrook and Pork Youth Ambassador Abby Elsamiller of Waverly as the 2024 Iowa Pork Youth Leadership Team. Each earned a $4,000 scholarship and a plaque noting their award.

Throughout the year, Aubrey will assist with public activities promoting and educating about pork and pig production, from county events around Iowa to the World Pork Expo and Iowa State Fair.
We are so proud to see an incredible young woman being an advocate for the industry. Best of luck, Aubrey!

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