LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Poultry Federation has announced its new executive vice president — Blake Rollins.
“I’m just really honored to have the chance to come home and to help lead the Poultry Federation,” Rollins said. “I’ve got a lot to learn here, but I am excited to learn from our president and to make an impact here.”
With Arkansas being Rollins’ home state, he is inspired by the scope of its largest industry. According to the Arkansas Farm Bureau, this poultry industry generates more than $20 billion to the state’s economy.
Rollins received his law degree from the University of Arkansas and focused on agricultural and food law. This background led him to his position in Washington D.C., working for the Senate of Agriculture Committee. Along with his other accolades, Rollins has worked for U.S. Senator John Boozman and served with the USDA during the first Trump administration.
“Poultry is the most consumed livestock commodity in America, and so you can’t work in agricultural policy without having engaged in poultry issues,” Rollins added.
As he steps into this new position, Rollins wants to continue not only being a resource for education and advocacy, but also to reach the more family-oriented side of the Federation.
“What I think is unique about the Poultry Federation is, we have a lot of avenues and opportunities for folks to make a difference and be engaged,” he explained.
One of the top events for the Poultry Federation is its annual Poultry Festival, this year marking its 65th anniversary, and all are encouraged to attend. There will be food, music, tournaments, a trap shoot, and industry awards. They will also be hosting their 28th annual Scholarship Auction, which raised more than $135,000 in 2024. These scholarships provide opportunities for young people who aspire to work in the poultry and/or egg industry.
“All proceeds from the auction are applied to the scholarship fund and support our partnerships with 4-H and FFA in Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma,” the Federation says.
For those who are interested in attending or applying for a scholarship, make sure to check out the Poultry Federation’s website at: www.thepoultryfederation.com/events/poultry-festival.
