Colleagues, friends and strategic partners of the National Pork Board (NPB) are mourning the loss of Elaine Otte, who passed away on Oct. 1. Through her actions and spirit, she showed us what it means to truly serve pig farmers.
“I hope she knows the impact she made,” said Neal Hull, director of channel market development for NPB. “Her heart of gold always put others first. She always remembered the little things about people, which allowed her to foster relationships and connections that repeatedly helped her and others.”
Elaine truly valued relationships, both personally and professionally. Her connections opened doors for NPB and state pork associations to build trust in and add value to U.S. pork on behalf of America’s pig farmers. Long-term relationships helped her do what was morally best, especially when inevitable business challenges arose.
“Elaine was always respectful of her team, pig farmers, agriculture and our flag,” said Allison Fiscus, executive director of Utah Pork Producers Association. “Likewise, her personable work ethic was the grassroots network connecting Utah Pork Producers Association to local resources, like when we needed a significant product donation for our event. I was her priority and her friend when we talked. She wouldn’t forget about the intricate details, just like I won’t forget about her.”
Turning Research and Relationships Into Measurable Growth
NPB strategically invests Checkoff funds to grow demand for pork and ensure pork has a seat at the table and space in the meatcase. Elaine’s role was to support retail and convenience stores in implementing consumer research that may lead to business changes or new menu options.
“The pinnacle of her career was because of what she accomplished on behalf of farmers — those who were the backbone behind it all,” said Steve DeVries, manager of channel market development for NPB.
She was proud of her work, but the only time she boasted was when little to no Checkoff funds were spent. She saved money wherever she could, using her connections to capture high-dollar advertising space for less, securing a booth space at key conventions throughout the supply chain or activating important programming with key state partners or customers. Every project was important to her; she gave 100%, no matter its complexity.
“Elaine was an advocate for pig farmers and the pork industry,” said Joyce Hoppes, consumer information director for Iowa Pork Producers Association. “She structured powerful pork promotions without committing a lot of Pork Checkoff dollars. I miss her excitement and am treasuring my memories.”
She had a deep passion for helping farmers in the best way she knew how — through her network and building trust with key supply chain partners. For example, she used research-backed evidence to persuade a Michigan-based retailer to add a 90% lean, 10% fat grind of ground pork to the case, resulting in 75% incremental sales of new customers. Though logistically challenging, this business decision was based on the confidence the retailer had in Elaine.
Champion for Producers, Friend to All
Organizations like NPB are built on strategy but sustained by people, and Elaine cherished her peers and colleagues.
Jonathan Mancuso, director of retail media sales and business development for Giant Eagle, reflected on how Elaine impacted him.
“We always get stuck in the motion of work, life and more, but she knew when to pause and focus on the core. During one phone call shortly after the birth of my daughter, we discussed NPB priorities and Taste What Pork Can Do™ brand campaign timing. She then paused the conversation entirely and said:
‘All right … I now need you to unplug. Go pick up that baby and smother her with love. Send me pictures of the family. I want to celebrate this moment with you all. Work can wait until you’re back. Go be Dad! While you’re at it, I am making short rib with tagliatelle tonight — what wine do you use for the base? I need your mother’s recipe.’
– Elaine Otte
“This was a very common theme. We’d cover work and life, and all roads led back to sharing recipes that really brought us together. Beyond being a great partner, she was really a great friend. She was among the first people who called me when my baby was born, when I got promoted and more. There was a special bond between us — a bond I miss.”
We can better serve pig farmers by mirroring Elaine’s servant leadership, understanding how people can help solve problems, spending Checkoff funds judiciously and being radically generous.
“She convinced me to work for NPB because she was so passionate about working for an organization that cares about people raising pigs.”
Steve DeVries, NPB, Channel Market Development Manager
Our Favorite Memories of Elaine
Our deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends and farmers who were impacted by Elaine’s passing.
Donate in Honor of Elaine Otte
Elaine was extremely talented in her nearly 50-year career in softball. She financially supported others throughout her life because she believed money should not be a barrier to playing the game.
The South Florida Amateur Athletic Association plans to establish an SFAAA hardship fund in Elaine’s honor to assist players with registration fees and equipment. To donate, click here and select the “Donation in Memory or Honor” option.
