Spencer Jacobson Selected as 2023 Friend of the Department of Animal Science

Animal science alum Spencer Jacobson has supported the South Dakota State University Department of Animal Science ever since he graduated from SDSU in 1995. Recently, he was recognized for his ongoing support by being selected as the 2023 Friend of the Department of Animal Science. Currently, Jacobson resides in Brandon with his wife and three daughters and works at Smithfield Foods in Sioux Falls as the hog procurement business manager.

"I am really humbled by the recognition," said Jacobson. "The Department of Animal Science means a lot to me, and over the years, I have always been willing to help and support them."

During his time at SDSU, he enjoyed being involved in Little International, Block and Bridle, Meats Judging, Wool Judging and the Junior Livestock Judging Team.

Jacobson supports the animal science program by helping connect SDSU faculty, staff and graduate students to individuals involved in the swine industry. He is a regular, invaluable guest lecturer for various animal science classes including introduction to animal science, livestock evaluation and marketing and swine production. He has also worked with SDSU graduate students and faculty to help facilitate research into swine carcass characteristics, and dedicates time to assisting the SDSU Meats Judging Team.

Jacobson has worked closely with SDSU faculty to help develop a nationally recognized research project investigating above ground swine burial methods. He supported Bob Thaler, distinguished professor, interim head of the Department of Animal Science and SDSU Extension Swine Specialist, on a swine mortality composting project.

His support doesn't stop there – Jacobson serves as the primary contact for the popular pork bundle and pork loin donations for the SDSU Pork Classic basketball game. This donation helps leverage support of approximately $10,000 in scholarships annually. The SDSU Pork Classic is a collaborative event sponsored by the Department of Animal Science and SDSU Athletics, with all proceeds benefitting animal science students and student athletes. The event helps to both support students and provides recognition for South Dakota’s pork industry.

“Without Spencer’s dedication, none of these efforts would have been successful,” said Thaler. “It is not an overstatement that the many contributions made by our SDSU swine science faculty, staff and graduate students would not be possible without his support."