The Paulson-Whitmore Award Recognizes Anne Miller as Outstanding State Executive in the Pork Industry
CHICAGO, Illinois, March 6, 2024 — The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) proudly announces Anne Miller as the winner of the prestigious Paulson-Whitmore State Executive Award. This award, jointly developed by NPPC and the National Pork Board (NPB), honors exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment by state executives within the pork industry. Miller served as the Montana Pork Producers Council executive director from 2004-2022.
“Anne Miller defied expectations with her extraordinary journey – from a 23-year-old with no prior experience in pigs or the industry – to becoming one of the youngest state pork association executives,” said Scott Hays, NPPC president. “Receiving the distinguished Paulson-Whitmore Award exemplifies her positive impact on Montana’s growth and involvement during her tenure and stands as a testament to the profound influence of leadership and encouragement in overcoming challenges.”
Hailing from Jordan, Montana, Miller’s impact extended beyond state borders when she took on the role of dual state executive, supporting the Wyoming Pork Producers Council in 2009. Notable achievements include chauffeuring members of the Hutterite colony — who needed a cultural exception — to Washington, D.C., to speak with legislators, contributing to the We Care® Ethical Principles development, serving on the committee to hire NPB CEOs, and advocating for pork quality with state meat processors.
Mastering crisis management and leveraging industry insights, Miller emerged as a driving force behind impactful initiatives spanning Montana and the entire nation. Her leadership took center stage, particularly during the unprecedented challenges of 2020, as she adeptly navigated disruptions in the supply chain triggered by plant shutdowns.
From spearheading collaborative calls with industry peers to strategically coordinating food bank donations, Miller’s contributions to disaster relief and emergency services seamlessly intertwined with her state executive role. She led biosecurity enhancements for a remote health facility and skillfully applied concepts from the Secure Pork Supply Plan programming to explain and evaluate facility maps within health and human services buildings.
Miller’s leadership, characterized by discretion and humility, left an indelible mark on the agricultural landscape. Her unassuming, yet powerful, influence garnered widespread respect, solidifying her position as a quiet, formidable presence in the industry.
The annual Paulson-Whitmore State Executive Award, presented at the National Pork Industry Forum, recognizes individuals’ dedication to strengthening their state’s pork industry and positive contributions to NPPC and NPB. Named after notable past state executives Don Paulson of Minnesota and Rex Whitmore of Wisconsin, the award underscores the vital role state organizations play in the success of the pork industry.
