By Joy Crosby, ACN Board President
Throughout my life, I’ve been involved in a variety of organizations — from high school and college to my professional career. I’ve never been one to sit on the sidelines and simply hold a membership. I suppose that trait comes from my parents, who both volunteered their time and talents through numerous organizations throughout their lives.
Within ACN, I constantly see members stepping up to take on new roles, bring forward fresh ideas and lead or serve on committees. I’ve also seen members who have served for years take a step back for personal reasons or to pursue other leadership opportunities. Whatever your reason for becoming more involved or taking a pause, your voice still matters within ACN.
One of the things I appreciate most about ACN is that growth rarely happens by accident. More often, it begins with a simple decision to lean in and get involved. Maybe that means volunteering for a committee, attending a webinar or participating in a regional workshop. Sometimes it’s as simple as showing up, introducing yourself to someone new and becoming part of the conversation.
Those opportunities are available to every member.
If you’ve ever wondered how to become more involved, I encourage you to explore the committee descriptions on the ACN website or reach out to Kristin Harner, a member of the staff team or any board member. There is always room for new ideas, fresh perspectives and willing hands.
When I think about what makes ACN special, I often think about the people who encouraged me along the way — a mentor who invited me to serve, a colleague who challenged me to grow or a conversation at the Ag Media Summit that sparked a new idea and opened a new door.
Those moments matter. They are what make this organization valuable.
So maybe the question isn’t simply, “Why do you belong to ACN?”
Maybe the better question is: “Why do you keep showing up?”
For me, it’s because this organization continues to invest in people — and people continue to invest in one another.
I hope you’ll continue leaning into opportunities to grow, serve and connect. You never know where one “yes” might lead.
– Crosby is Editor Southeastern Peanut Farmer and Assistant Executive Director of the Georgia Peanut Commission.