My name is Rhea Schirm and I am the new JSHAP publications manager. You may recognize my name as I previously worked for National Pork Board for 10 years. I had the amazing opportunity to work with farmers, academicians, and veterinarians alike. I have recently started my own consulting business and I am so excited for the opportunity to work in the pork industry again.
My previous role as a business coordinator with the National Pork Board was focused extensively on their research process, which included working with the committees and task forces that determined which research proposals to fund. I was involved with the entire process including receiving research proposals, sending reminders to investigators for interim and final reports, and initiating payment for completed work. It provided a great opportunity to learn many different areas of research including swine health, animal welfare, and human nutrition to name a few. With my BA in anthropology, my knowledge of different cultures paired with my love for travel and new experiences really helped me transition into the workforce and be able to use my knowledge to help in every aspect of life.
On a personal note, my husband and I have 2 children, our son who lives at home and our adult daughter who lives nearby. We keep very busy with sports activities and really enjoy boating and fishing when we have the time. We got our first dog in December, a goldendoodle puppy that has been keeping us very busy with training both us and her! My son and I also truly love reading and try to visit the library to get a good book in as much as possible. We are currently reading James and the Giant Peach together.
I want to personally thank Karen Richardson, the previous JSHAP publications manger, who for the past 20 years has worked to make JSHAP a high-quality publication. She has done this with grace, ease, and patience. To help with a smooth transition, Karen has been training me to understand the publication process of the journal.
I am truly looking forward to helping authors and reviewers with their submissions to the journal and making the process as seamless as possible. I am very excited for this opportunity to learn and grow in this role.
Rhea Schirm
Publications Manager