University of Nevada, Reno Provost Marc Johnson will join a select group of directors of the national organization Agriculture Future of America (AFA) to receive honorary recognition when he travels to Kansas City, Mo., on Friday for the AFA’s annual award dinner.

Johnson, who served on the AFA’s board of directors from 1997-2008 becomes only the 14th director in the organization’s history to be recognized for his efforts in supporting “the mission of AFA and his counsel has provided the AFA directors and staff with valuable guidance during his tenure as a member of AFA’s Board of Directors from 1997-2008,” said Alexander C. Kemper, chairman of the AFA board. Johnson’s award also cites his work as “an individual whose service to the mission of AFA has contributed to the organization’s development and growth.”

Said Johnson: “I appreciate recognition by a board of agricultural industry executives who are concerned about the professional development opportunities of young people producing and marketing tomorrow’s food, fiber and energy products. I had the opportunity to serve as a founding director of Agriculture of America and represent university students’ interests in guiding the direction of student support.”

AFA reaches thousands of students and young professionals each year, from more than 70 colleges and universities across 28 states. The organization supports college students in agricultural disciplines, and provides leadership training, scholarships and internship within industry and agencies in the field of agriculture.