Matthew Edward Kocher Ph.D. Student Department of Animal Sciences University of Illinois 212 Animal Sciences Lab MC - 630 1207 West Gregory Drive Urbana, IL 61801 Phone: (217) 333-0794 E-mail: mkocher@express.cites.uiuc.edu

Matt grew up in Newton, IL where he was raised on livestock and grain operation.  He had extensive production background as his family once raised and sold purebred seedstock.  However, due to several changes in the swine industry, they now operate a 4,000 head swine contract nursery.  Matt attended Lake Land Junior College where he majored in agriculture and received his Associate Degree in Science in 2000.  Matt then transferred to Western Illinois University, and majored in Animal Science with a minor in Agriculture Economics, thus, earning his Bachelor of Science Degree in 2002.  Matt's growing interest in swine management practices has led him to the University of Illinois, where he is currently pursuing a Master of Science Degree under Dr. Mike Ellis.  Matt will also serve as assistant coach for the 2002 Illinois State 4-H Livestock Judging Team.