Mike Levengood, vice president, chief animal care officer and farmer relationship advocate for Perdue Farms, was named USPOULTRY’s Workhorse of the Year during the USPOULTRY Chair’s Reception at the International Poultry Expo, part of the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo. The poultry industry’s most prestigious honor is awarded annually in recognition of dedicated service and valuable leadership given to the Association and the poultry industry.

Levengood was “collared” with the long-established horse collar by Clint Rivers, retired CEO of Wayne-Sanderson Farms. He was also presented with a commemorative plaque.

Mike Levengood is a graduate of Penn State University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration in Agriculture Business Management. He has served the poultry industry in various capacities, including serving on the USPOULTRY Executive Committee and as chair in 2023. He is also the past chairman of the National Chicken Council Growout Committee. He joined Perdue in 1984, where he has held various senior-level positions.

“It is a great honor to present this distinguished award to Mike in recognition of his dedicated service to both the poultry and egg industry and USPOULTRY. Through steadfast service and a genuine commitment to supporting others, Mike has made a lasting and meaningful impact on both the industry and USPOULTRY,” said Nath Morris, president of USPOULTRY.