The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) announced the 2025 recipients of its two most prestigious awards, who will be honored Nov. 13 at the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference in Indianapolis. National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) CEO Ted McKinney- who also previously served as the first USDA under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs- will receive the Michael J. Mansfield Award. USMEF established this award in recognition of the U.S. Senate majority leader and ambassador to Japan whose five decades of government service advanced U.S. trade relations throughout the world. Dermot Hayes, who recently retired as an Iowa State University professor and consulting economist for both the National Pork Board (NPB) and National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), will receive the USMEF Distinguished Service Award. This award honors outstanding figures in the red meat industry who exemplify the exceptional individual dedication responsible for the federation’s success.
Ted McKinney said he recalls working closely with USMEF’s international representatives when working to build global demand for U.S. ag exports.
Dermot Hayes provided critical market research during negotiations of several U.S. free trade agreements, including those with South Korea, Colombia, and Central America. Hayes said he is pleased that these efforts have delivered great results for the U.S. industry, and he sees similar potential in other regions.
For more information, visit usmef.org.
