Pfizer announces educational partnership with NCF
Three-year commitment will be used to bolster educational programs.

Pfizer Animal Health expanded its commitment to the livestock industry with a $3 million grant to be given over the next three years to the National Cattlemen’s Foundation (NCF). The grant will be used to enhance educational programming for U.S. cattle producers. 

“It is vital that we keep our industry strong,” explains Robert DiMarzo, president of U.S. operations for Pfizer Animal Health. “We have had a longtime partnership with the beef industry through our support of the Cattlemen’s College and, more recently, the NCBA Industry Issues Forum. This new commitment by Pfizer Animal Health helps NCBA expand these grassroots’ efforts at a critical time for the industry.”

Last month, the nation’s beef industry was rocked by news of a BSE-positive animal in Washington state. 

“The BSE issue underscores the need for a clear, unified educational effort for cattle producers. We must maintain the integrity and safety of the nation’s beef supply,” DiMarzo says. “Food safety and livestock production issues will continue to drive the need for educational efforts that reach all cattlemen.”

Cattlemen’s College is the gold standard for informational programming and content, notes Eric Davis, a Bruneau, Idaho, producer and NCBA president. 

“Pfizer’s commitment today will ensure that programs like this will reach the entire cattle industry,” Davis says. “Outreach programs under development include distance-learning opportunities. In the near future, producers who are hundreds, even thousands of miles apart can attend these valuable educational programs via the Internet.

“Educational programs are the linchpin for moving our industry forward. Not only will producers benefit, but consumers will benefit as well by virtue of a higher quality and more consistent beef product.  Pfizer’s commitment will have short and long-term benefits for both.”

The NCF serves the beef cattle industry as a philanthropic institution with a mission to promote the future of the industry through research and education. Activities include providing grants for scientific research, scholarships and educational opportunities for young people interested in beef industry careers, and educational programs for cattlemen to enhance opportunities for viability and profitability. 

The $3 million commitment by Pfizer Animal Health will be provided to the NCF over a three-year period. Monies are earmarked for educational programs for all producers.

Editor’s Note: This news release was supplied by Pfizer Animal Health, a business of Pfizer Inc. For additional information on Pfizer cattle vaccines and other cattle health products, visit www.pfizerah.com.