National Turkey Federation Foundation – Overview
Mission: To help ensure the success of the turkey industry by supporting the recruitment and development of leaders, education and public awareness, international outreach and research.
The National Turkey Federation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that seeks to enhance the visibility and understanding of the turkey industry while promoting healthy and sustainable eating habits that improve people’s lives.
For nearly 85 years, turkey farmers and processors have counted on the National Turkey Federation (NTF) to act as their advocate. The National Turkey Federation Foundation was proposed in 2015 to support these advocacy efforts and allow expansion of the NTF reach. Acting in accordance with its 2015 mission and vision, the NTF Foundation (NTFF) will advance and broaden the impact of the NTF by pursuing initiatives that include:
- Increasing visibility and understanding of the turkey industry, while advancing healthy, sustainable production practices and strengthening food‑safety efforts that support increased turkey consumption.
- Developing and expanding programs that give college graduates and young professionals meaningful exposure to the turkey industry and its career opportunities.
- Educate international partners on current healthy food trends, food safety measures, biosecurity issues, safe-handling protocols, and environmental and animal-welfare practices that promote a safe, sustainable food supply.
Research Program Overview
The National Turkey Federation Foundation is dedicated to the growth, progress, and welfare of the turkey industry and all of its individual and corporate interests. The promotion of problem-related research and the training of graduate students are priorities for the association. Research results are publicized in the industry press and made available on the National Turkey Federation Foundation website.
Research proposals are evaluated by a panel composed of industry experts representing a cross section of disciplines and responsibilities. The committee’s recommendations are referred to the association’s Board of Directors for funding.
Board of Directors
- Jay Jandrain, Butterball – Chairman
- John Zimmerman, P&J Products – Director
- Gary Cooper, Cooper Farms – Director
- Jihad Douglas, Aviagen Turkeys – Director
- Paul Hill, West Liberty Foods – Director
- Phil Seger, Farbest Foods – Director
- Leslee Oden, National Turkey Federation – Treasurer
- Damon Wells, National Turkey Federation – Foundation Manager
