He was recognized at the National Pork Industry Forum in Phoenix, 3-5 March 2011. The Distinguished Service Award is given annually to recognize the lifelong contribution to the pork industry of an outstanding leader.

"When John entered the industry with genetic consulting work, there was a real need out there to help people develop breeding systems and genetic systems that would maximize the heterosis and reproduction values," said Everett Forkner, a pork producer from Richards, Missouri, and National Pork Board vice president. "He brought that to the industry in a timely fashion; and covered a need that was there. He helped to direct the genetic programs and systems that were not there. Through those efforts, John had a large influence on the betterment of the pork industry."

Mr Mabry's keen insight and experience has given him the broad perspective to see not only the past and present, but to work on influencing the future of the pork industry as well. His passion is to see the American pork industry continue to lead the world in technology, innovation, and production.

"I think it is going to be important that we position ourselves so we can be economically sustainable, but if we don't look out at the environment we operate in, if we don't keep our social aspects in line, we are not going to be allowed to produce," said Mr Mabry. "I think we are really going to have to work hard, not only to do our job right, but also to promote ourselves properly, and survive in a new paradigm."