By Andi Anderson
The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is set to inaugurate a groundbreaking endeavor in the realm of agricultural communications. Named in honor of the esteemed agricultural communications pioneer and Illinois professor emeritus, the James F. Evans Global Center for Food and Agricultural Communications seeks to become a beacon of excellence in the field.
Dean Germán Bollero of the College of ACES expressed the university's unique position to spearhead transformative insights in global food systems, leveraging both its renowned agricultural industry and proximity to one of the nation's largest urban centers.
The Evans Center aims to drive progress in agricultural communications through a multifaceted approach encompassing outreach, professional development, research, convenings, and degree programs. With a fundraising campaign exceeding $5 million required for its establishment, the center received a substantial donation from an anonymous alumnus, serving as a catalyst for its inception.
Initial plans for the Evans Center include a dedicated space within the College of ACES Library, Information and Alumni Center, paving the way for collaboration between students and experts from diverse backgrounds. Anna Ball, associate dean of academic programs in the College of ACES, envisions students tackling pressing communication challenges in today's global food systems environment.
Building on the success of the agricultural communications undergraduate and graduate programs, the Evans Center will emphasize skill development, global awareness, and critical thinking. Needs assessments conducted by Illinois and the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists underscore the demand for strategic thinking, multimedia production processes, and leadership training in the communications landscape.
Stakeholders, including industry professionals, alumni, faculty, and students, have outlined priorities for the Evans Center, spanning professional development events, skills training, research endeavors, and consumer outreach initiatives. Through collaboration and innovation, the center aims to advance food and agricultural communications, fostering a more sustainable future for producers and consumers alike.
For more information on the Evans Center and agricultural communications programs, interested parties can reach out to program director Owen Roberts at oroberts@illinois.edu. Opportunities for support and engagement are available through the ACES Office of Advancement, facilitating contributions towards this transformative initiative.
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Categories: Illinois, General