OAC Announces 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees

May 23, 2025

(left to right: John H. Davis, Bill Isler, John Linder, Steven D. Maurer)

NEW ALBANY, OHIO – The Ohio Agricultural Council (OAC) will proudly induct four outstanding individuals into the Ohio Agricultural Hall of Fame this year, honoring their remarkable contributions to Ohio agriculture. The 59^th annual ceremony, set for August 1, will pay tribute to John H. Davis of Carrollton, the late Steven D. Maurer of Botkins, John Linder of Edison, and most notably for the pork industry, the late Bill Isler of Prospect.

Among the honorees, Bill Isler’s legacy stands as a powerful testament to innovation, leadership, and quiet generosity. A third-generation pork producer, Isler helped grow Isler Farms into a national model of excellence in swine genetics and herd health. Known for being among the first to adopt artificial insemination and SPF (specific pathogen-free) herd standards, Isler’s forward-thinking approach earned him respect and recognition across the U.S. and internationally.

Beyond his role as a producer, Isler gave generously of his time and expertise. He mentored youth through FFA, 4-H, and the Ohio State Fair, and served in leadership roles with the Ohio Pork Council and the National Duroc Board. For more than two decades, his pigs contributed to life-saving human medical research- just one or the many quiet ways he gave back to the greater good.

“Each of these individuals has left a meaningful and lasting imprint on Ohio agriculture,” said Tadd Nicholson, OAC president. “Bill Isler exemplified the spirit of service and innovation in the pork industry, he is truly the type of individual this Hall of Fame was created to honor,” added Ohio Pork Council Executive Vice President, Cheryl Day.

Over 600 guests are expected to attend the ceremony, a tradition that has recognized 257 leaders since its founding. This year’s celebration will not only spotlight the achievements of four distinguished individuals- it will especially honor the enduring impact of Bill Isler’s life and legacy in Ohio agriculture.

About the Ohio Pork Council

The Ohio Pork Council was established in 1968, beginning with nearly 800 pig farmers dedicated to the task of promoting their own product. Currently, OPC has approximately 2,500 members. Their mission is to serve and benefit all Ohio pork producers. To learn more about the Ohio Pork Council, visit www.OhioPork.org or call 614-882-5887.