Gary Parker received his B.S. degree from Iowa State University in 1971 and Ph.D. degree from the University of Kentucky in 1975. In that year, Parker joined the Department of Animal Sciences faculty at the University of Kentucky as an Extension Swine Specialist. Throughout his career, Gary Parker has followed the philosophy that the critical component of an effective extension program is a sincere concern for the well-being of the clientele. This philosophy has led to the development of innovative extension activities and educational opportunities that provided swine producers and support-industry personnel with the new technologies, management strategies, and skills they needed to remain viable and competitive in a dynamic industry. His high level of commitment and dedication to individuals involved in the pork production chain has resulted in a very strong level of grassroots support for his extension program throughout Kentucky. Parker is recognized throughout Kentucky as a strong voice for the agriculture community. He recently served on the livestock committee that was instrumental in drafting unique legislation for Kentucky's Agriculture Water Quality Plan. Gary also led a successful cooperative effort between the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Pork Producers Association in securing funding for the Kentucky Swine Development and Training Center. Parker serves as a member of the National Pork Producers Council Swine Educators Advisory Group and as an advisor to the executive board of directors for the Kentucky Pork Producers Association. In 1979, Parker received the American Society of Agricultural Engineers Educational Aid Blue Ribbon Award, and in 1981 and 1996 he received the Kentucky Pork Producers Association Outstanding Service Award.