Dr. Jim Evans assisted students in establishing the American Association of Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (National ACT) at the Agricultural Communicators in Education Convention in 1970. When Dr. Evans started as the only agricultural communication faculty member in the early 1960s at the University of Illinois, there were only 12 programs nationwide that began as technical journalism. The University of Illinois conducted a national survey among agricultural communication programs about faculty and student interest in making linkages among the programs. Survey results confirmed an overwhelmingly positive response, and Illinois students developed a communications recognition program, annual meeting, newsletter, and regional meetings for the National ACT. Dr. Evans served as the faculty advisor and coordinated the National ACT headquarters at the University of Illinois for 25 years, until 1995.

Today, more than 33 active chapters represent universities across the country. National ACT offers many opportunities including membership in several agricultural organizations. We host contests and give out awards to distinguished members of the agricultural industry. We conduct two business meetings at Ag Media Summit and the National ACT Professional Development Conference (PDC). Chapters rotate as hosts of the PDC where National ACT members have opportunities for professional growth, industry tours, and networking with leaders in the agricultural communications field. Critique and Contest is the national communications and journalism competition for ACT student members. This contest allows undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to have their work analyzed by professionals and judged against members across the nation. Categories include writing, publication, electronic media, photography, design & layout, and public relations. Awards are presented during the National ACT business meeting at Ag Media Summit.

We have strong support from industry professionals and organizations that encourage the success of students with an interest in agricultural communications. Established by the National ACT in 1993 and adopted by the American Agricultural Editors’ Association (AAEA) in 2004, AAEA Agricultural Communicators Network scholarships are awarded to outstanding members of ACT for their achievements in leadership, career-related experiences, academics, and service.