Macomb – Earlier this month, State Representative Norine Hammond (R-Macomb) received the “Jim Guilinger Legislative Award” from the Illinois Leadership Council for Agricultural Education (ILCAE) for her efforts to expand and promote agricultural education in Illinois schools.
“Agricultural education is more than just teaching the next generation of farmers,” said Rep. Hammond. “It’s about instilling in students the values that make our farming communities and state as a whole thrive – values like hard work, innovation, and entrepreneurship. I’m proud to support agricultural education funding for our schools because it’s vital to our district’s economy and well-being. This cause is dear to my heart and essential for our communities. Thank you to ILCAE for encouraging the education of tomorrow’s agricultural leaders.”
Since 1987, the “Jim Guilinger Legislative Award” has been presented to legislators who advocate for and have been publicly supportive of Illinois agricultural education. According to ILCAE, these legislators understand the importance of the agricultural industry that makes up about a quarter of Illinois’ jobs. They also know the extreme importance of today’s youth understanding the ever-evolving and expanding agricultural industry with the knowledge gained through a current and progressive agricultural education.
The award is named in honor of Jim Guilinger, who was a nationally-recognized agricultural education leader. Jim spent 56 years of his life dedicated to agricultural education. He constantly sought out innovative and cutting-edge technology and curriculum for the betterment of his students. Jim was born in Monmouth in 1930 and served as the Secretary of the McDonough County Farm Bureau.
ILCAE is a voluntary advocacy group focused on legislation, funding, and promotion of agricultural education. ILCAE, formed in 1984, is governed by a 30 member board of directors who represent and serve as a link between the agricultural industry and agricultural education.
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