By ACN Future Ag Communicators Chairwoman Megan Schilling
The two Ag Media Summits I’ve attended so far in my career have been significant events for me.
In my first year as an ag communicator, I had a lot to learn and knew it (still do, in fact). AMS was a golden opportunity to build new relationships in the hallways and classrooms, to learn invaluable lessons in sessions hosted by my peers, and to refine the goals I set for my personal and professional development.
At my second AMS, just last year, I received the best honor: the Andy Markwart Horizon Award.
ACN Member Andy Markwart was Editor of The Furrow.
Sadly, he passed away from heart problems in 2006.
The recognition inspires me to live up to the example Andy Markwart set for us in the industry and to exemplify his character, which is celebrated in this award. The generous funding has opened a host of possibilities to help make my goals a reality.
In a few short weeks, I’ll be off to the IFAJ bootcamp and congress in Denmark and am so thankful to be able to use the funds from the award for it. Seeking new perspectives in agriculture and ag journalism is part of my mission and I’m excited to bring my experiences back. When I see you at AMS in July, just over a week post-congress, ask me how it was!
If there is a young journalist you could nominate for the award, or if you’re able to apply yourself, I encourage you to do so. It is a great honor. One that lives on beyond the Ag Media Summit.
The Andy Markwart Horizon Award is sponsored by John Deere and the AAEA Professional Improvement Foundation (PIF).
Click here to nominate an ACN peer for the award—or apply for it yourself. The deadline to submit both forms is Friday, June 17th.
Megan Schilling is a digital content editor for Meredith Agrimedia.