NJSALeadership

The responsibilities Ellen holds as the Director of Junior Shows oversees the largest youth livestock association in the country, the National Junior Swine Association (NJSA). She manages the partnerships of the NJSA and leads the long-term planning and growth of the organization. Her responsibilities include organizing regional and national shows for youth members.  Ellen started with the NSR as the Junior Activities Coordinator in 2014.

Prior to joining the NSR team, Ellen attended Lake Land College and the University of Illinois. She judged livestock at both schools and was an active member of the Hoof N’ Horn club. The youngest of the Olson siblings, she has a brother, Blane, and a sister, Mary Link. Ellen and her husband, Kyle, enjoy raising pigs together.

"Follow your dreams, believe in yourself and don’t give up." — Rachel Carrie

Nicole joined the National Swine Registry team in April 2019 as the Director of Education and Outreach. Chance works cross-functionally with the Director of Jr. Shows and is responsible for the development of educational resources and outreach activities that closely align with NSR’s Long Range Strategic Plan, coordinating national and regional leadership conferences, and promotion of the organization to industry stakeholders and consumers.  

Nicole attended the University of Illinois where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and minor in animal sciences. During her time at Illinois, she was a member of the livestock judging team, Illini Hoof n’ Horn, 4-H House Cooperative Sorority and Illini Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow. Before the NSR, Nicole interned for WYXY Classic 99.1, Illinois College of ACES, National Pork Board, Land O’ Lakes and was a Sales Trainee for AgReliant Genetics following graduation.

Growing up on a diversified grain farm and farrow to finish hog operation in Lebanon, Indiana has always given her a deep respect and passion for the swine industry. Nicole hopes to use this passion to discover unique and impactful ways to connect young seedstock producers with industry leaders that offer hands-on learning experience, knowledge and mentorship ultimately leading to careers in leadership within the swine industry.

"Be patient but persistent." — Ronald E. Chance