NAMI Scholarship Foundation Establishes Ron Gustafson Scholarship

The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) Scholarship Foundation today announced the establishment of the Ron Gustafson Scholarship, a $5,000 award honoring Scholarship Foundation Founding President and meat industry leader Ron Gustafson. Each year, the NAMI Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships to eligible sophomores, juniors and seniors attending accredited four-year colleges or universities who are enrolled in an approved animal, meat or food science degree or culinary arts program.

Gustafson currently serves as president and chairman of the board of the Vernon, California-based Coast Packing Company, the number one supplier of animal fat shortenings in the Western United States. Gustafson played an integral role in building the company’s executive and management team, improving its facilities and modernizing production. He also previously served as a director of both the Western States Meat Association (WSMPA) and National Meat Association, a predecessor organization to NAMI.

Gustafson’s family has a long history in the meat industry. His grandfather, Anton Rieder, owned Coast Packing Co. and was a founding member of WSMPA.

“Through the establishment of the Ron Gustafson Scholarship, the NAMI Scholarship Foundation celebrates the unparalleled dedication and service of this industry pioneer,” said NAMI Scholarship Foundation President Mike Gangel, Birko-Chad Co. “Ron’s crucial role in building and strengthening the Scholarship Foundation has helped many bright future industry leaders achieve their academic and extracurricular goals.”