For years, UEP's President's Award and the Egg Producer of the Year awards have recognized and celebrated exceptional contributions and achievements within the egg industry. These prestigious awards honor individuals who exemplify excellence and showcase their commitment to advancing egg production.

Each year, the President's Award honors someone who has profoundly impacted UEP and the egg farming community. This year, UEP recognized Dr. Janice Swanson for her unwavering dedication to the egg industry and her pioneering work in animal welfare throughout her life. As a founding member of the UEP Scientific Advisory Committee for Animal Welfare, Dr. Swanson has been instrumental in developing science-based guidelines that uphold the highest standards of care for laying hens. Her leadership at Michigan State University, where she has served as professor and director of Animal Welfare since 2007, has advanced research, outreach, and education initiatives that address social responsibility within the food system. Dr. Swanson's outstanding contributions not only elevate animal care standards but also pave the way for continuous improvement within the egg industry.

UEP is thrilled to announce Dr. Craig Rowles as the recipient of the 2024 Egg Producer of the Year, the organization’s most distinguished award. This honor recognizes Craig's exceptional dedication and leadership in the egg production industry, solidifying his rightful place in our Hall of Fame. A graduate of the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1982, Craig began his career in Carroll, IA, focusing on mixed animal practice with an emphasis on swine until 1996. He then transitioned into swine production, serving as General Manager and partner of Elite Pork Partnership, managing an 8,000-sow farrow-to-finish operation until 2014. Currently, Craig is the General Manager of Cage-Free Operations for Versova Management Company and actively contributes to the UEP Board and various committees, including Animal Health and Biosecurity.

American Egg Board also recognized Sandra Lausecker with its first-ever Breaking Through Award, commending her outstanding contributions to the U.S. egg industry. Sandra is president and CEO of NaturePure and Ohio Natural Eggs. Sandra and her brother Daniel are second-generation egg farmers operating cage-free and free-range farms, including the innovative educational farm, Outward Farms, which was visited by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden in 2023. Sandra has positioned herself as a leader within the egg industry and currently serves on UEP's and AEB's respective boards.