A Wonderful Retrospective
On Friday, September 6th, 2024 we celebrated the 75th Anniversary of the Agronomy Center for Research & Education. ACRE, or simply "the farm", has seen a lot of growth and change over those 75 years. The event sought to keep an eye on the past, remembering where the farm began, but also to look ahead and imagine what the future holds for ACRE and the research performed here.
The day began with small plot field demonstrations and a research showcase which provided guests with an opportunity to see some of the latest agronomic innovations first-hand. Equipment, old and new, was also on display to show how much farming technology has advanced. Later, guests were able to socialize and take a look at a detailed overview of ACRE's history.
Guests were treated to dinner, and comments about the farm's legacy were given by Rachel Stevens, ACRE Farm Manager; Bernie Engel, Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture; Jeff Volenec, Interim Department Head of Agronomy; and Laura Bowling, the new Agronomy Department Head. The keynote speech was delivered in the style of an interview between Jeff Volenec and "Mr. ACRE", played by Vic Lechtenberg. A retrospective video of the farm was also premiered.
The event concluded with the induction of the 2024 Legends of Agronomy. This award had been on hiatus since 2012, so there were a number of deserving candidates, making the decision on the final group very difficult. Eight individuals were ultimately chosen, including Ellsworth Christmas, Bill McFee, Jim Vorst, Terry Lemming, Gebisa Ejeta, Connie Foster, Jim Beaty, and Vic Lechtenberg. You can learn more about the award and see past and present inductees on the Legends of Agronomy webpage.
ACRE 75 Photo Gallery
The Ozzie Luetkemeier ACRE 75 Endowment
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