Growing up on her family’s farm near Stratford, Iowa, Stephanie Carlson Couser was surrounded by agriculture from the start. With her family deeply rooted in Iowa State University, it’s no surprise that she became a proud Cyclone herself. While she originally attended Iowa State to pursue veterinary medicine, Stephanie was soon drawn back her roots in animal science and the swine industry. 
During her time at Iowa State, Stephanie made the most of every opportunity to learn, lead, and connect. She was actively involved in Block and Bridle’s Swine Interest Group, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Student Council, National Agri-Marketing Association, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, and the Ag Entrepreneurship Initiative. She also gained hands-on experience working at the Iowa Pork Industry Center, the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, and the university’s swine teaching farm, completing internships each summer as well. These diverse experiences helped her build a well-rounded education and network beyond the classroom.
Among her favorite courses were Animal Science 214: Anatomy and Physiology, where she appreciated the hands-on learning. Most of all, she enjoyed Animal Science 425: Swine Business Management, which deepened her understanding of the business side of pork production. “I knew I wanted to be a part of the swine industry,” she said, “so I was always heavily invested in any swine class.”
Today, Stephanie serves as the Assistant Vice President of State and National Relations for the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC). In this role, she represents America’s pig farmers by managing relationships between national and state pork partners. She supports legislative and policy efforts both in Washington, D.C. and in state capitols across the country. “It’s very rewarding to see national efforts help pork producers navigate the challenges in front of them, especially as someone who grew up raising pigs in Iowa,” she shared.
Her advice to current and future Cyclones? “Get to know your professors and peers. I still work with and talk to the connections I made at Iowa State, whether it be professors or friends, so having those meaningful relationships is beneficial down the road.”