The American Feed Industry Association honored Donald E. Orr, Jr., with its 2016 Distinguished Service Award for his life-long contributions to the feed industry and to AFIA. Orr received the award May 4, at the AFIA Board of Directors dinner in Arlington, Va.
The Distinguished Service Award is AFIA's highest honor, given to only 32 individuals since 1981. The award recipients are elite members of the U.S. feed industry that have, throughout their careers, provided outstanding support to AFIA and the entire feed industry.
Orr served as president of JBS United, Inc., Sheridan, Ind., for 18 years and currently serves as president emeritus. He has been recognized for a plethora of industry awards and has circled the globe advocating for agriculture.
"From day one, Don has been very involved in the association's growth and success," said AFIA President and CEO Joel G. Newman. "While serving as Chairman of the former Non-dues Revenue Task Force, he was an instrumental part in the creation and structure of AFIA's foundation, the Institute for Feed Education and Research."
Orr served as Chairman of AFIA's Board of Directors from 2008-09, and served on the Board and Executive Committee from 1995-2015. He has also provided his support to the Nutrition Committee and initiated the former Energy Task Force.
Orr earned his bachelor's degree in animal science from Purdue University, master's degree in animal industry from Penn State and a doctorate in animal husbandry from Michigan State University.
Left to right: AFIA President and CEO Joel G. Newman, award recipient Donald E. Orr, Jr., and AFIA Board of Directors Chairman Rob Sheffer.