It’s that time of year again, when my weekends are filled with football, football, and more football. As an Iowan, this past weekend marked one of the biggest games of the year, Iowa (Hawkeyes) v. Iowa State (Cyclones). Now I must admit, the game was amazing and great it was, as an ISU alum, to see my time win on Hawkeye turf. However, regardless of who won or lost, the Iowa Corn Growers Association (“Iowa Corn”) has found a way to turn this time honored tradition into so much more than just a football game.
This year marked a big change for the annual CyHawk series with new sponsorship by Iowa Corn. Being in Iowa, it’s no surprise to see a number of different agricultural stakeholders as sponsors of these competitions, but never in my recollection has agriculture been given such a spotlight. With more and more of the public wanting to know where their food comes from, but less than 2% involved in production agriculture, Iowa Corn recognized the need to step up and share their message.
It was amazing to see fans at this event actually interacting with farmers, asking questions, and really embracing Iowa agriculture. When people are able to make the connection between production and consumption of their food, fuel, and fibers, not only are they a more informed consumer but they are a catalyst for information.
I commend the Iowa Corn Growers, and their continued efforts to educate the public, share their message, and make agriculture “cool” again. I thank them for their continued support of student athletics, Iowa agriculture, and for allowing me to cheer my Cyclones on to a nail-biting (9-6) victory from Section 103!
GO STATE
