Bob Pepple named 2025 Penn State Distinguished Dairy Science Alumnus

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Department of Animal Science in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences has named Bob Pepple of Oxford to receive its 2025 Distinguished Dairy Science Alumnus Award for his contributions to the dairy industry.

After graduating from Penn State in 1968 with a bachelor’s degree in dairy production, Pepple worked for his family's commercial dairy operation for four years before he and his wife Jane purchased their farm in Chester County in 1972. He and Jane — who also is a Penn State alumna — assembled a genetically superior dairy herd starting in the 1970s that had an influence on the world dairy industry.

Their Pep-L-Lea herd bred many outstanding Holsteins, and the Pepples sold bulls to at least five different artificial insemination companies in the United States. They exported animals to dairy farmers in other countries, as well. Much of the Pep-L-Lea herd can be traced to Round Oak Rag Apple Elevation, one of the most influential Holstein sires in history. 

“Bob Pepple’s work advancing the genetics of the Holstein breed and operationalizing a scientific approach to dairy farming in a way that impacted Holstein genetics internationally makes him very worthy of receiving our Dairy Science Distinguished Alumnus award,” said Rebecca Krisher, head of the Department of Animal Science. “He is highly respected in the dairy industry, and particularly in Pennsylvania, for his integrity, common-sense approach to dairy farming and work ethic demonstrated over decades.”

A founding member (along with Jane) of the Penn State Dairymen's Club, which was founded to provide support and encouragement to the Penn State Dairy Science Club, Pepple has served on county, state and national Holstein committees. He and Jane were recognized in 2016 by the Pennsylvania Holstein Association with the Hall of Fame Award. He has served on the board of directors of the Pennsylvania Dairymen's Association, Chester County Board of Directors for Penn State Extension, and he and Jane supported and worked with agricultural youth groups. They continue to be involved with Pennsylvania Junior Holstein and Chester County 4-H. 

Pepple has been a tremendous supporter of youth aspiring to careers in the dairy industry, according to Dale Olver, assistant teaching professor of dairy and animal science.

"Bob and Jane were long-time volunteers at the All-American Dairy Show, and they assisted with the All-American Invitational Judging Contest for many years,” he said. “They have sponsored many youth awards across the state. Bob has been a key contributor to Holstein-related activities and has helped provide leadership to the Pennsylvania Holstein Youth Scholarship Organization, a group that awards scholarships to junior Holstein members from across the state.”

Pepple was modest about being recognized by the Department of Animal Science.

“When I received the phone call informing me of this recognition, I could hardly believe it was true,” he said. “When I think about all those who have previously received this distinction — individuals I have respected and admired — I am humbled and honored. I am blessed and thank everyone who has made this possible.”

Pepple will be recognized on Oct. 24 with a departmental reception prior to the Penn State Dairy Science Club Fall Classic.