Andy Markwart

The Andy Markwart Horizon Award, presented by the ACN Professional Improvement Foundation (PIF), is an annual award given to an ACN member who embodies the youthful vigor, energy, passion, dedication, and creativity shown by Andy in his volunteer work for ACN for many years. Andy, the editor of The Furrow, died in 2006 from heart problems.

Award Criteria
The Andy Markwart Horizon Award winner must meet the following criteria and provide the following application materials: 

• Open to any ACN member age 35 and younger.
• References. Two professional references (one from current employer).
• Essay: 500 words or less which describe your interest in receiving the stipend, why you believe you are deserving, your professional goals, etc.
• Resume
• Completed application form. 

The application deadline is June 20, 2025. Complete applications and additional materials must be emailed to Will Johnson, wjohnson@asginfo.net.

You may nominate an ACN member or apply for yourself. Nominations are not required.

John Deere, where Andy worked for many years, initially endowed the program with a total gift of $25,000. In 2024, Den Gardner, Gardner & Gardner Communications sponsored the winning stipend. Each year, the winner of the award will receive a $2,500 stipend, which can be used for attending the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) annual meeting, the AMS meeting or a special class/seminar/workshop, etc. A class/seminar/workshop must be approved by PIF.

2015 – Josh Flint

2014 – Kacey Birchmier

2013 – Christy Couch Lee

2012 – Jennifer Shike

2011 – Mike Deering

2010 – Jeff Caldwell

2009- Joy Carter 

2008 – Corey Geiger

2007- Jamie Cole