SDSU Honors Legacy of Swine Research Leader

By Scout Nelson

South Dakota State University will soon establish the Rick Wahlstrom Endowed Chair in Swine Production to honor the longtime professor’s impact on swine research, teaching, and agricultural leadership. The new endowed position will support faculty research and strengthen swine education programs within the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.

Rick Wahlstrom served as a swine professor and animal science department head at SDSU for 36 years beginning in 1952. He retired in 1988 and passed away in 2023 shortly before his 100th birthday. During his career, he became widely respected for his work in swine nutrition, teaching, and student mentorship.

Wahlstrom earned recognition as Teacher of the Year three times within the college. He also authored or co-authored hundreds of research articles, reports, and publications. In addition to his academic work, he founded the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity at SDSU and remained active in the community alongside his wife, LaRayne.

Bob Thaler, who studied under Wahlstrom, praised his former adviser’s influence on agriculture education and research.

“Incredible human being,” Thaler said. “He fought in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. Came to SDSU. He was the first Distinguished Professor in the entire South Dakota regental system — incredible gentleman. He valued, greatly, teaching, and he valued research.”

University leaders said the new endowment will help SDSU attract and retain talented faculty members focused on swine production research and teaching excellence. Officials plan to appoint a faculty member for the position during the 2026-27 academic year.

Rick Wahlstrom’s family and industry supporters also welcomed the announcement. Donations for the endowment came from agriculture organizations, industry leaders, and family members. Supporters said the new chair will continue advancing swine research while helping prepare future agriculture leaders and strengthening South Dakota’s swine industry for years ahead.

Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university