Kristi Smith

Kristi Smith is from Princeville, Illinois, where she lives on a fourth generation show pig operation. All of her family is involved in raising the pigs. Currently, Kristi works for the University of Illinois Extension as the Peoria County 4-H Extension Program Coordinator. She organizes all 4-H events in her county, including the fair, workshops that have to do with livestock, as well as their Federation. For the past seven years, she has been the livestock judging coach for Peoria County.  In the summer, she volunteers at Sommer Farm in Peoria, where they educate the public about farming and 1850’s prairie life. She is a member of the Princeville United Methodist Church, where she has taught Sunday School for several years. 

Kristi attended Black Hawk College East Campus before transferring to Iowa State University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science. She was on the judging team at both institutions.

How do you believe the landscape of the industry has changed over the last five years?

“My experience with the purebred industry has given me a unique lens. I think from the show side of things, we have the ability to show anywhere at any given time, and apps that make those shows easy to view from anywhere. I think that the challenges that we are facing as an entire industry are growing. Consumer awareness is something that is necessary and we need to continue to educate. The swine industry is made up of the most amazing people that are constantly doing what is best for their animals. We have amazing technologies that help us succeed in making a wholesome and tasty product!”  

• Member of the Illinois Chester White Association. Served as the Vice President from 2022-2023.