Little Rock, AR – June 21, 2024 – The Poultry Federation is proud to announce the recipients of its prestigious 2024 Industry Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions and achievements within the poultry industry. This year’s honorees exemplify dedication, leadership, and innovation, marking significant milestones in their respective careers.
Pictured Left to Right: Marvin Childers, President of The Poultry Federation, Toby Tapp, Complex Manager at Wayne-Sanderson Farms, Danville, Arkansas.
2024 Industry Leader of the Year: Toby Tapp
The 2024 Industry Leader of the Year award is presented to Toby Tapp, Complex Manager at Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ Danville facility. Tapp began his career in the poultry industry in 2004 and has ascended through various roles to his current position as Complex Manager. He has also served on The Poultry Federation board, holding every officer position.
Tapp is recognized for his ability to unify voices within the poultry industry and effectively communicate its impact to various stakeholders, including government bodies and the public. His leadership is further demonstrated by his oversight of a processing plant for fresh chicken products, a hatchery, a feed mill, and the construction of a new $40+ million feed mill.
A 1994 graduate of Arkansas Tech University, Tapp and his wife Lynn also manage a cow/calf farm. He is a dedicated family man, with two children and four grandchildren, and enjoys playing golf in his spare time. Known for his camaraderie and mentorship, Tapp advises aligning oneself with a mentor to build essential life and work skills.
“I am excited and humbled to receive this award from such a distinguished organization as The Poultry Federation. I have been fortunate to make many great friends within this industry and look forward to working with them and the staff at The Federation to advance our industry in the coming years,” stated Tapp.
Pictured Left to Right: Marvin Childers, President of The Poultry Federation, Kyle Avey, Senior Account Manager, Phibro Animal Health Corporation
2024 Allied Sales Rep of the Year – Live Side: Kyle Avey
The 2024 Allied Member of the Year award goes to Kyle Avey, Senior Account Manager with Phibro Animal Health Corporation. Avey, who grew up in the poultry industry, holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Food and Life Sciences with a major in Animal Science from the University of Arkansas.
Since beginning his career in 2010, Avey has worked for multiple top broiler companies and has completed over six leadership programs. In 2020, he was chosen by the 2005 Allied Industry Leader of the Year to be his successor upon retirement. Known for his commitment to professional development and industry excellence, Avey continues to be a pillar in the poultry community.
Avey, raised in Springdale by his parents Kenny and Glenda Avey, enjoys spending time with his family, which includes his wife Sarah and their three daughters, Charlotte, Adeline, and Madison. His hobbies include hunting—a passion in which he excels, earning him a reputation as a “killer, not a hunter.”
“I’m thankful that God has blessed me to work in such an amazing industry. I’m also grateful to all the folks who have graciously shared their wisdom throughout my career. For three generations, my family has been involved in poultry, and I am proud to be part of such a great community of people,” stated Avey.
The Poultry Federation congratulates Kyle Avey and Toby Tapp on their well-deserved awards and extends its gratitude for their contributions to the industry. Their achievements and leadership inspire continued excellence and innovation in the poultry sector.
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The Poultry Federation is a multi-state trade organization representing the poultry and egg industries in Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Its mission is to promote and protect the interests of the industry and its members through advocacy, education, and member services.
Media Contact:
Holly Duval
Dir. Of Marketing & Business Dev.
(T) 501.375.8131
(M) 501.326.7715
