Nearly 40 years ago, when he served as a U.S. Department of Agriculture inspector, the rendering industry couldn’t get rid of him fast enough. Now, they wish he would stay.
Dr. Don Franco, who has served as vice president of Scientific Services, National Renderers Association, and president, Animal Protein Producers Industry, for the past 11 years, retires at the end of this month. While he is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Bette, and their nine grandchildren, Franco believes he will remain involved in a “very limited way” with an industry that has benefited from his talents, expertise, and dedication.
Looking back on his experience, Franco believes the regulatory challenges have been the biggest change he has seen in the industry in the past decade. Unfortunately, he said, some of them stem from the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) crisis in the United Kingdom.
“I personally believe the BSE complex should have been handled regionally, but it did not happen that way,” Franco commented. “So everything has had a BSE connection in the last 10 years.” Despite the trials and tribulations, he has enjoyed his involvement with the industry.
“The challenges made it interesting. It was never dull,” Franco said, adding that the toughest obstacle has been getting the government to understand some of the nuances and misconceptions they have developed. But Franco’s prediction for the industry’s future is bright.
“In spite of the challenges, the long term looks good,” he commented.
“We need to steer the course. Some days it seems as though we have made little progress, but collectively, we’re still doing well,” Franco stated.
One of the things he’ll miss most after retiring is the people.
“We have made a lot of great friends over the years and it won’t be easy [leaving],” he said. Bette feels the same way, and realizes their feeling is mutual.
“I am proud of him,” she said. “I am so touched they love him so much.”
While the Franco’s look forward to enjoying some leisure travel and their Florida home, Don is confident the legacy he leaves behind will be carried on.
“I have every conviction that my successor will assimilate and serve the industry with the same enthusiasm as I have,” he commented about Dr. Peter Nersessian. “I have committed to him and the industry that his transition be heartfelt, memorable, and meaningful.”
As for how he views his 11 years with the industry, Franco looks at it in only one way.
“It was the best of times.”
December 2002 Render