By Julie Deering, Chair, Professional Improvement Foundation
Energy. Passion. Creativity.
Do you know someone who brings these traits to their work each and every day? These are the individuals who help build our teams, who we can lean on and depend on as that next generation takes on more responsibility and begins to move into leadership roles.
Andy Markwart was this person at The Furrow, where he worked for many years. Many recall the youthful vigor, energy and passion that he brought to his work and for his dedication to ACN and many years of service. While he left this Earth too soon due to heart problems, his legacy lives on.
Thanks to a $25,000 initial endowment by John Deere that is now supported by Den Gardner of Gardner & Gardner Communications, the ACN Professional Improvement Foundation awards one $2,500 stipend to support professional development.
These funds can be used for attending the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) annual meeting, the Ag Media Summit or a special class, workshop or seminar.
Criteria for the award are these:
- Open to any ACN member age 35 and younger.
- 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
If you are interested or know someone who should be nominated, please complete the application form by June 20. Nominations will be judged by representatives from the PIF Board of Trustees, and the award will be presented during the Ag Media Summit, which will be July 27-30 in Rogers, Ark.
For more information about PIF, visit https://agcommnetwork.com/professional-development/professional-improvement-foundation/
– Deering is communications contractor with the U.S. Soybean Export Council