Bonnie Johnson
September 18, 2025
Media ArticleThe National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) celebrates excellence in agriculture with the announcement of the 2025 Honor Award recipients at its annual meeting.
This year’s honorees reflect dedication to service, communication, administration, and collaboration that strengthens agriculture across the country.
“Every year, we have the honor of celebrating the individuals whose dedication and innovation help advance agriculture in meaningful ways,” NASDA President and Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward said. “These awards reflect our deep appreciation for those who work wholeheartedly to support our communities, strengthen our food systems and secure a thriving future for agriculture.”
Heather Lansdowne, Director of Communications for the Kansas Department of Agriculture, receives the 2025 Communications Award. This award highlights her outstanding media and public communication efforts that enhance public understanding of agriculture.
Over the last decade, Heather has built strong connections with Kansas farmers and ranchers and helps explain complex animal and plant health issues in clear, relatable ways.
Julie Cook, Administrative and Financial Manager of the Wyoming Department of Agriculture, earns the 2025 Douglass-Irvin Administration Award. Julie has served more than 25 years in administration, managing fiscal, human resources, reporting, public information, and IT operations. Her integrity and problem-solving skills make her a trusted leader across Wyoming’s government.
Katie Howard, Deputy Commissioner of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, is honored with the James A. Graham Award for Outstanding Service. Katie leads divisions focused on food safety, milk control, and laboratory services.
She plays a key role in New York’s proactive response to highly pathogenic avian influenza, protecting dairy herds, poultry, and public health.
NASDA also presents the Public-Private Partnership Award to SAS. Since 2022, SAS actively partners with NASDA to create national and regional solutions addressing drought systems, international market development, and food system resiliency.
These 2025 NASDA awards showcase how individuals and partners like Heather Lansdowne, Julie Cook, Katie Howard, and SAS drive innovation, collaboration, and leadership to build a stronger future for American agriculture.
Photo by: www.nasda.org
