Sundberg Named Swine Health Information Center Director

June 3, 2015 — 

It was announced at the World Pork Expo that the Swine Health Information Center’s (SHIC) Board of Directors has named Dr. Paul Sundberg, current vice president of science and technology for National Pork Board (NPB), the inaugural executive director of the Center. Dr. Sundberg has been instrumental in the formation of the new center and has the vision to bring it to fruition. The center, a collaborative effort between National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), NPB and American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV), will focus its efforts on implementing industry preparedness for disease challenges that could affect U.S. swine herds. Initial funding for the Center comes from a onetime Checkoff investment of $15M of supplemental money to fund the Center for its 5 year life.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity,” Sundberg told Feedstuffs, adding that the center provides an unprecedented opportunity for the pork industry to improve swine health in the U.S.

“From its inception, this center has been driven by Paul and we are excited for him to see this dream come to fruition. But, of course, the Center’s gain is our loss,” said Chris Hodges, chief executive officer of the National Pork Board. “We are glad to know that we will have a friend leading this very important initiative. And we know the Pork Checkoff will continue to play a key role in helping the Swine Health Information Center achieve its goals in swine disease management. We wish Paul all the best and look forward to continue working with him as he develops the Swine Health Information Center.”

Dr. Sundberg will be leaving NPB July 3 after 21 years focused on representing the U.S. swine industry. Over the next four weeks, The Pork Checkoff will work closely with Dr. Sundberg and the Science & Technology team to assure a seamless transition. The National Pork Board will immediately begin a national search to fill Dr. Sundberg's current position.

AASV is committed to working closely with Dr. Sundberg and the SHIC to focus on emerging and endemic swine disease threats.

Source: National Pork Board and Feedstuffs magazine