BROOKINGS, S.D. – South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to welcome Kaylyn Rudy as the new SDSU Extension Swine Field Specialist.
Rudy is based in Mitchell and will work to identify the needs of swine producers and provide research-based information to producers and industry partners.
“I look forward to helping producers and their operations thrive,” Rudy said. “I am also excited about creating educational opportunities for all and encouraging the next generation of agriculturalists and swine producers.”
A native of Illinois, Rudy grew up on a farm and showed horses and cattle in 4-H. She has a bachelor’s degree in agricultural science with an animal science emphasis from Western Illinois University, and a master’s in swine reproductive physiology from Purdue University.
Her research has included swine fetal development and how a common swine disease, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), is transmitted from a pig to its piglets during pregnancy.
Rudy has worked as head of animal care at Premier BioSource, a biomedical swine facility, and as a swine service technician for Indiana Packers Corporation. Sandy Smart, SDSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Senior Program Leader and professor said Rudy’s professional and academic experience make her ideal for the role.
“Kaylyn Rudy joins the SDSU Extension team with great academic training and real-world experience in the swine industry,” Smart said. “We are very excited to have her join us to improve the swine industry in South Dakota and the surrounding region.”
For more information, contact Kaylyn Rudy, SDSU Extension Swine Field Specialist.
