By Susan Crowell / editor@farmanddairy.com
The headline isn’t clickbait. We really are looking for the next editor of Farm and Dairy.
That’s because, after almost 34 years here at Farm and Dairy, I’ve decided to retire at the end of June. (I’m probably using the farmer definition of “retire,” which means I will probably just keep on working in a different role in the ag world. Anyone hiring a calf feeder?)
Farm and Dairy wasn’t my first job after college, but when I started here, I was only 23. Four years later, when I was named editor, I was also nine months pregnant with my first child — and probably was the only woman in history who didn’t want to deliver that child early … there was just too much to do in that new position.
I have been honored to serve you in that role for 30 years. You have watched me “grow up” — and some of you have played a major role in that education, too. For that, I thank you.
So now, we need your help again. We want to cast the widest net to find our next editor — someone who brings that blend of agriculture and journalism. One of you might know someone who fits that description. A cousin, a college friend, a brother, a neighbor. Tell them to send us their resume. It’s a great gig.
Interesting in learning more about the position? Click here.
We’re going to be picky because we owe you that. We owe you someone who brings energy and insight and a passion for sharing the information you need. We need that ag background and we need that dedication to journalism — a blend of skills that isn’t common, but we know it’s out there.
We’re going to be picky, because the trust that Farm and Dairy has built over the years didn’t just happen, and we want to make sure that trust is maintained for many years to come.
We’re going to be picky, because now is not the time to rest on our laurels. Like all of you, we’re working hard to build our farm business. We want to continue to provide the information you need to do your job — but to give it to you in whatever format you want it. An app. Text alerts. Market alerts. Email newsletters. Social media. A format that hasn’t even been created. Your farm is not the same as it was 100 years ago, and neither is Farm and Dairy.
Many of our older readers will recognize the name Elden Groves. Elden had retired as editor by the time I came on board, but I soon discovered that his approval was still the unstated standard. He taught me that everyone had a story to tell, and he was right. You do have amazing stories to tell, and it’s been my privilege to help tell them.
I’m excited to hand the baton to the next editor and stand on the sidelines cheering him or her as Farm and Dairy builds its future with you. I know you’ll be supporting that person, too.
I grew up next door to Elden Groves and have so many of my own stories to tell, as would most of my cousins, who worked on the dairy farm at one time or another. The area has changed so much and still brings tears to my eyes when I am forced to drive through that area. Here’s to hoping that the next editor will be someone who has a sense of history and nostalgia as well as having the ability to bring the special talents necessary to take The Farm and Dairy into the future.
Congratulations on your retirement. You will be missed at Farm and Dairy. Thank you for the opportunities to write for such a highly respected publication over the years. It was much appreciated.
Just a short comment…I’ve been reading your tome for most of the time you’ve been in charge, and have enjoyed, and learned from your contributions. I, too, am stepping down from an old and respected magazine, Bee Culture, The Magazine Of American Beekeeping, published now for 140 some years in Medina, OH. Figuring out how to leave has been a challenge, as those in charge no longer have the family beekeeping legacy as second nature, so they are a step or two removed from both the day to day, and the particulars of what we do, day to day. Your column on your retirement was an inspiration to me…a good way to reach those who both appreciate what we do, and may want to continue that. For that, I thank you. And from me and all of your readers….thank you.
Kim Flottum
Editor, Bee Culture Magaine.