Thomas Pantano has been recognised as the 2024 Poultry Science Distinguished Alumnus by the Department of Animal Science in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, according to a university-issued news release. 

“It’s a great honour,” Pantano said. “I’m very proud to be a Penn Stater. My education opened doors for me and allowed me to do a job I enjoy and be part of an industry that’s feeding the world.”

Initially, poultry was more of a hobby than a career for Pantano. He grew up in the Pittsburgh area and did not have a background in farming. Pantano added that his grandparents gave him his first two chickens for Easter when he was very young. That gift piqued his interest in the poultry industry. Growing up, Pantano had an incubator where he hatched quail and pheasants — and once, even brought home a duckling in his lunchbox.

Pantano first earned a two-year degree from Penn State and planned to work as a medical lab technician. After learning more about the poultry science program, Pantano switched gears and decided to make his hobby a career.

Pantano graduated from Penn State in 1983 with a bachelor of science in poultry technology and management. After graduation, he worked at Hess Mills, a Purina dealer in Paradise for six years. He then spent 10 years at Pennfield Corporation in Lancaster. Pantano has been with Tyson Foods for nearly 26 years and is currently employed there.

“This award reflects Tom’s dedication to the discipline of poultry science throughout his career,” said Adele Turzillo, former head of the Department of Animal Science. “He joins a group of alumni who have made significant contributions to animal agriculture. Especially notable is his service to the poultry industry and willingness to share his knowledge and passion with colleagues, customers and employees.”

Paul Patterson, professor emeritus of poultry science, echoed the sentiment.

“Working with Tom is always a pleasure, and we in the department are grateful for his input and guidance to make our research and outreach programs more meaningful," Patterson said.

Patterson noted that Pantano has worked with both the Poultry Science and Animal Science Department and Penn State Extension faculty by contributing to the planning committee of the Penn State Sales and Service Conference and the department’s monthly seminar series, Poultry Management and Health Seminar.

Pantano was also active in the governance of the Pennsylvania Poultry Federation and PennAg’s Poultry Council. He and Tyson Foods have also contributed to advisory panels on broiler research at Penn State.

“Tom is a really wonderful person — he’s kind, friendly and always willing to support his alma mater and his fellow industry professionals,” said Patterson. He described Pantano as an excellent mentor and leader who sets a great example for student interns at Tyson Foods as well as his employees.

Austin Beebe, broiler service technician at Tyson Foods, described Pantano as a family man who also builds strong relationships with farmers.

“Tom is willing to spend as much time as needed on a single farm to ensure that the grower is successful and to ensure the well-being of the birds," Beebe said. "Even the farmers’ dogs come running when his truck pulls into their driveway.”

Pantano is a great leader and manager, according to Caitlin Fairbairn, production and compliance coordinator at Risser’s Poultry Inc.

"He is invested in his employees’ personal and professional growth, and did whatever he could to help them succeed,” she said, adding that Pantano is extremely popular in the poultry industry.

“Tom is the most passionate manager I have worked for in my 27 years at Tyson Foods,” said Steven Frankford, field service technician at Tyson Foods. “He is a true leader and I have learned a great deal from him. His knowledge is invaluable.”

Pantano will receive his award at the 2024 Poultry Sales and Service Conference held Sept. 18-19 at The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center. This conference brings together Penn State faculty and students along with poultry producers and industry representatives.

Pantano has been married to his wife Deb for 39 years and has two children and three grandsons.