Demands for agriculture to address global challenges are expanding exponentially, while at the same time dynamic new media are redefining the field of communication. From my perspective, it’s a moment of opportunity for Agricultural Communications at the University of Illinois.

Over the past year the College of ACES and the College of Media have worked together to develop a proposal for a shared home for this academic discipline, and to create a first-of-its-kind endowed chair which will support teaching and scholarship.

Not that specialized communication courses focusing on agriculture are exactly new. Agricultural journalism courses at Illinois can trace their start back to 1907. The University began offering a full agricultural communications undergraduate major 47 years ago. Since that time, faculty and students established the first national student organization in the field, published extensive research, helped establish ag communications programs in developing countries, organized the first international exchange program, and founded the Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, a prime international resource center.

Now, here’s what’s new: the partnership between the College of ACES and the College of Media will be the most fully-collaborative interdisciplinary partnership known to exist among colleges and universities that offer joint programs in agricultural journalism and agricultural communications. Following approval by the Board of Trustees for the University of Illinois and by the Illinois Bureau of Higher Education, a one-year transition phase is expected. Once approved and fully implemented, students will take part fully in both colleges--including admissions, courses, learning resources, scholarships, student organizations, advisement and career placement services, student awards, alumni status and student representation. Students will be admitted to the major in both colleges through a joint review of applications, receive a College of Media B.S. degree, and upon graduation, become welcomed alumni of both colleges.

This proposed program will address the growing need for effective communications in the fast-changing world of agriculture, food, feed, fiber, bio-energy and rural development.

I recognize the passion of our Ag Communications alumni and volunteers that has helped bring these plans to fruition. For some of you, this has been a journey that has come full circle. I truly believe that this proposed program will provide a legacy of which we can all be proud, and will offer positive visibility for Agricultural Communications within the University of Illinois, and beyond.

Robert A. Easter

Dean