As a professor and dedicated leader in higher education, Dr. M. Todd See is passionate about teaching, conducting research that supports the pork industry, and translating science into soundbites for the public and key decision-makers. With a proven track record in fostering student and faculty success, he brings expertise in innovation and building impactful partnerships that influence the success of multiple generations in agriculture.
Background in Academics
In 2010, See started his tenure as head of the Animal Science Department at North Carolina State University’s (NC State) College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. In his role, he supervises 88 faculty and staff and supports more than 1,000 students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.
See originally joined the NC State faculty in 1992 and became a professor in the department in 2004. He had a role in swine extension focused on swine breeding, genetics and production management. Serving as swine commodity coordinator for the Animal Science Department since 1988, See has been responsible for developing and facilitating extension programs for agents, agribusiness representatives and producers. He has produced 66 peer-reviewed publications and more than 450 technical publications from conferences and workshops throughout his tenure as an extension educator.
Inspiring the Next Generation
See is known as a ‘connector’ and has the distinct ability to engage meaningfully with others. Whether working with young show pig enthusiasts or seasoned producers, See focuses on more than sharing knowledge. He listens to each individual and guides them through practical, personalized solutions. This approach also helps him inspire the next generation of the workforce.
“For me, a lot of the motivation started when I was young. It was just the way I was raised. Our family always invested in people,” said See.
His leadership, innovative approach and standard for academic excellence have elevated the Department of Animal Science at NC State. This is evident through See’s innovative approaches of on-campus farms, support for distance education degree programs and participation in planning efforts of the U.S. pork industry. He has served on 15 reviews for national programs and more than 50 task forces.
Value in Research
See also combines his scientific background with an understanding of distilling complex scientific research into topics and understandable insights, making science accessible to all.
Several years ago, See played an instrumental role in nuisance lawsuits in North Carolina. In a pivotal and challenging time for the industry, his ability to bring science and research to the forefront was invaluable. He worked closely with National Pork Board (NPB), National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and North Carolina Pork Council to combat misconceptions and provide decision-makers with clear, factual insights that supported producers.
In a defining moment where collaboration and communication were vital, See worked with industry leaders to ensure producers were represented with integrity and backed by research.
Leaving a Legacy
NPB proudly recognized See as the 2025 Distinguished Service Award winner during the National Pork Industry Forum in Orlando, Florida.
See is not only a contributor to the industry. He’s an advocate and leader who is actively shaping its future. His leadership, passion and unwavering dedication inspire the whole industry, especially the youth who will become its future workforce.
“Todd’s legacy is the people. He has guided important research, but that’s not his legacy. His legacy is the people that will go on and lead this industry,” said Jan Archer, producer education and outreach at North Carolina Pork Council and NPB past president.
