2016 Reuben Brigham Award
Hembree Brandon

The Reuben Brigham Award is offered in memory of Reuben Brigham (1887-1946), who served as an Extension editor in Maryland. The award, established in 1947, is reserved for a communicator who has made a major contribution in the field of agriculture, natural resources, or life and human sciences at the regional, national, or international level.

Hembree Brandon is currently editorial director for Farm Press Publications, which include Delta Farm Press, Western Farm Press, Southeast Farm Press, and Southwest Farm Press.

He grew up in Mississippi and worked in public relations and edited weekly newspapers before joining Farm Press in 1973. He has served in various editorial positions with Farm Press publications, in addition to writing about political, legislative, environmental, and regulatory issues related to agriculture.

During his more than 40 years with Farm Press, Brandon has written about virtually every facet of American agriculture, from the successes and challenges faced by the individuals who produce the nation’s food and fiber to agricultural research and technology advances.

His editorials tackle relevant issues for agriculture and natural resources, whether they give voice to a single concern or examine the pros and cons of legislation that guides national farm policy.

Brandon’s journalistic professionalism in support of agriculture and natural resources exemplifies the spirit of the Reuben Brigham Award. While his body of work speaks to his commitment to his chosen profession, his summary of himself on his Twitter feed demonstrates his spirit:

Farm Press Editorial Director, doting grandfather to 4 beautiful girls, Faulkner fan, so-so gardener, thankful for the American farmer.