ATLANTA – Monty Henderson, recently retired president of George’s Inc., Springdale, Ark., and 2009 US Poultry & Egg Association chairman of the board, was named Workhorse of the Year by USPOULTRY during the 2011 International Poultry Expo.

The poultry industry’s most esteemed honor is given annually by USPOULTRY in recognition of dedicated service and valuable leadership given to the association and poultry industry.


Henderson was "collared" with the long-established horse collar by incoming USPOULTRY chairman, Gary Cooper. He was also presented with a commemorative plaque by 2010 Association chairman Steve Willardsen, Cargill Value Added Meats, Wichita, Kan.

"We are very pleased to honor Monty with this special award and acknowledge his many contributions to the Association and the industry," Willardsen said. "Monty has gone way above the call of duty in committing time and energy to help address and meet the challenges facing our industry on a day-to-day basis. We are thankful for his leadership and commitment."

A graduate of the University of Arkansas with a BS degree in Agribusiness, Henderson began his poultry career as a broiler service manager with Tyson Foods. He later became a broiler grow-out manager with Campbell Soup Company. He moved on to Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation, where he was live production manager and senior vice president and subsequently president and COO.

In 1994, Henderson joined George’s Inc., where he recently retired as president and CEO and now serves as a consultant. In addition to serving as a past chairman for US Poultry and Egg Association, Henderson has served on the Board of Directors for the National Chicken Council and as a director of the American Egg Board.

US Poultry & Egg Association is represents the entire poultry industry, with a focus on serving member companies through research funding, education, communication, and technical assistance. Founded in 1947, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is based in Tucker, Ga.