Source: Farm Progress news release
ST. CHARLES, ILL. -- Brad Haire, executive editor for Farm Progress, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Reuben Brigham Award by the Association for Communication Excellence (ACE). This award is one of the highest honors in the field of agricultural communications. Haire received this distinguished recognition at the ACE Annual Conference on June 18, 2025, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
With a career spanning more than 26 years, Haire has built a reputation as a trusted voice in agricultural journalism, serving as a vital link between producers, researchers and the broader public. The Georgia native directs editorial content for Southeast, Delta, Southwest and Western Farm Press publications, reaching more than 170,000 subscribers.
Haire's work is known for its clarity, relatability and deep respect for the agricultural community. Over the course of his career, he has authored or edited more than 4,500 articles and multimedia pieces, tackling everything from complex research findings to pressing issues like farm labor, mental health and worker safety. Through print, video and podcasts, his storytelling consistently prioritizes the needs of farmers and rural communities.
"I'm incredibly honored to receive the Reuben Brigham Award," said Haire. "It means a lot to be recognized by peers who understand the importance of telling agriculture's story. I've always believed in sharing the real stories -- what's working, what's challenging and what matters most to the people who live it every day. It's been a privilege to be part of that conversation over the years."
In addition to his editorial leadership, Haire has been instrumental in modernizing the way agricultural news is delivered. He led digital innovations at Farm Progress, transforming a historically print-driven organization into a multimedia powerhouse. His early adoption of video storytelling, digital content strategy and podcasting have helped extend the reach of agricultural news and research to broader, more diverse audiences.
Haire's service to land-grant universities and extension systems is also widely respected. Agricultural communicators across the country turn to him as a partner and mentor, crediting him with helping bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications.
Nominated by Farm Progress contributor and longtime colleague Maggie Lawrence, the Reuben Brigham Award recognizes Haire's decades of work improving the communication of trusted, research-based agricultural information.
Haire holds a master's degree in agricultural leadership from the University of Georgia and a bachelor's degree in communications from Augusta State University. He lives in southwest Georgia with his wife and two children.
About the Association for Communication Excellence (ACE)
ACE is an international association of communicators, educators, and information technologists who promote excellence in the communication of research-based knowledge in agriculture, natural resources, and human sciences. Learn more at www.aceweb.org.
About Farm Progress
As part of Informa Markets, Farm Progress is the largest, most diversified agriculture information business in North America. Our robust network of live events, digital products, data, marketing services, broadcasting, and local and national publications enable the nation's most economically significant farmers, growers, and ranchers to connect and do business. Serving 80% of the 2 million farms and ranches in the U.S. and contributing an estimated 85% of the nation's annual agricultural gross domestic product, we're proud to play our part in this crucial industry. Visit us at www.FarmProgress.com.