The Illinois State University Department of Agriculture was selected as the Region IV Winner of the National Association of Agricultural Education’s 2023 Outstanding Postsecondary Agriculture Program Award.
This award announcement came after the department received the 2023 Outstanding Program in Illinois award. “We are honored to receive the 2023 Outstanding Postsecondary Agriculture Program Award from both the National Association of Agricultural Educators and the Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers (IAVAT),” said Dr. Jay Solomonson, assistant professor of agricultural education. “We appreciate that these state and national professional organizations have recognized the hard work and effort of our amazing faculty and students in the Department of Agriculture. The entire ISU Redbird community should be proud of this accomplishment.”
The Department of Agriculture was first nominated for this award in spring 2023. Following being selected as the state winner, department faculty, staff and students worked together to complete the eight-page national application that included gathering supporting materials and obtaining a letter of recommendation. After submitting the national award application, the department received news in early August that they were chosen as the national Region IV Winner. The award was given based on the following criteria: overview, program mission, program curricula, experiential learning, leadership development, partnerships, marketing, and professional growth.
Dr. Lucas Maxwell—associate professor of agriculture education, communication and leadership—noted the importance of developing future agriculture industry professionals: “At a time when we face worker shortages across disciplines, the preparation of future agriculture professionals is critically important. I am proud of the work of the students, faculty, and staff in the Department of Agriculture at Illinois State University. It is truly an honor that the NAAE and Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers have recognized our efforts, and I am thankful to be a part of these professional organizations.”
“At a time when we face worker shortages across disciplines, the preparation of future agriculture professionals is critically important. I am proud of the work of the students, faculty, and staff in the Department of Agriculture at Illinois State University.”
Dr. Lucas Maxwell
The Department of Agriculture at Illinois State University prides itself in creating hands-on experiences in each of the 10 undergraduate and three graduate sequences offered. Serving approximately 450 students, the department boasts a small school feel while offering the opportunities associated with a large, comprehensive university. More than 20 award-winning faculty and staff work in the department, dedicating their time to excellence in teaching, research, and service. The longstanding emphasis on teaching and learning at the core of Illinois State University, coupled with student centered faculty and staff, a focus on applied learning, and countless opportunities for professional growth and development make the Department of Agriculture a place where students can create their legacy.
