Awards, Ratings & Rankings

Rural Visionaries To Be Honored During Farm Credit Centennial

Aug 10, 2015 12:35 PM ET
Campaign: Farm Credit 100

August 10, 2015 /3BL Media/ - Rural America is constantly evolving to meet the needs of a changing global agriculture economy, and a new effort is underway to champion the women, men and youth whose insights and influence are ensuring thriving rural communities for years to come.

Farm Credit, one of the nation’s leading lenders and financial service providers to rural communities and agriculture, has introduced Farm Credit 100 Fresh Perspectives to celebrate the vision and commitment it takes to be a leader in rural enterprise today and tomorrow. This program comes as Farm Credit enters its 100th year of financial support through its network of locally owned cooperative associations.

“For a century, Farm Credit has had the privilege of working hand in hand with the rural entrepreneurs and innovators who’ve helped shape the fabric of our nation,” said Leigh Picchetti, senior vice president of communications for the Farm Credit Council. “As we mark the beginning of this milestone year, we can reflect on our history and heritage, while also asking ‘what’s next’ for rural communities.”

Nominations for Farm Credit 100 Fresh Perspectives will be accepted at www.FarmCredit100.com until Dec. 18, 2015. A panel of experts will evaluate the entrants and select the top 100 honorees to be announced during National Ag Week, March 14-18, 2016. These 100 individuals will be celebrated and supported at the national and local level in an effort to build awareness of and appreciation for rural American contributions to everyday life.

Of the Farm Credit 100 Fresh Perspectives honorees, 10 exceptional leaders will each receive a $10,000 award to help further their contributions to thriving rural communities and agriculture. These 10 honorees and a guest will be invited to Washington, D.C., to participate in a special recognition event in 2016.

To recognize the diverse ways individuals are contributing to the future success of rural communities, nominations will be accepted in ten categories: 

  • Leadership (over 21)
  • Youth Leadership (21 and younger)
  • Rural Policy Influence
  • Beginning Farmer or Rancher Achievement
  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Sustainability and Natural Resource Conservation
  • Financial Stewardship
  • Mentoring and Volunteerism
  • Agriculture Education and Community Impact
  • Rural and Urban Connection

“The 100 selected honorees will have the opportunity to share their stories, inspire others with their vision and advocate for agriculture,” said Picchetti. “Rural industries evolve rapidly, and we are honored to recognize those who represent the future.”

To learn more and read the nomination category descriptions, visit www.FarmCredit100.com. Apply or nominate an agricultural leader you know for Farm Credit 100 Fresh Perspectives by Dec. 18, 2015.

 

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About Farm Credit 
Farm Credit supports rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services, today and tomorrow. Farm Credit has been fulfilling its mission of helping these areas grow and thrive for a century by providing farmers with the capital they need to make their businesses successful and by financing vital infrastructure and communication services. Because a steady flow of capital means more jobs and economic growth, Farm Credit is able to invest in the vibrancy of communities throughout rural America. For more information about Farm Credit please visit www.FarmCredit.com.