AdFarm in the News

Calgary, AB (October 29, 2012)- In less than two weeks time, Mr. Kim McConnell, a founder of AdFarm, will be officially inducted into Canada's Agricultural Hall of Fame. He will be the first-ever communications agency inductee. The legacy of Mr. Kim McConnell's successes will forever live on alongside other esteemed agricultural leaders including Senator Patrick Burns, Senator Harry Hays, Dr. Bob Church and the fathers of canola, Drs. Baldur Stefansson and Keith Downey.

Mr. McConnell's successes are numerous and have rightly earned him a position alongside these individuals; who are credited with such things as the establishment of the Calgary Stampede, the breeding of world respected crops and livestock, and the development of internationally respected agri-food products and technologies.

In 1984, McConnell started one of Canada's first marketing & communications agencies out of the basement of his home. Through the years, he continued to challenge himself to provide creative solutions that ultimately serve to strengthen Canadian agriculture. And since those early days, AdFarm, a marketing and communications firm known for its unparalleled experience in agriculture, has grown to become one of North America's most respected communications agencies; with two full service offices in Canada and four in the United States.

As Chief Executive Officer of AdFarm, McConnell has had the opportunity to work with some phenomenal organizations. His major contributions to the industry include the redevelopment of Canada's Outstanding Young Farmers program, the introduction of Alberta's Federation of Animal Care and work as an active board member and/or Chair for such organizations as Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency, Canada 4-H Foundation, Centre for Health and Safety for Agriculture, YMCA, The Alberta Economic Development Authority and Crime Stoppers. Due to his broad industry knowledge and personable nature, McConnell is a mentor to many young people, a strategic advisor to industry organizations and a respected facilitator at agricultural forums at the regional, provincial and federal levels.

Under Mr. McConnell's guidance, the agency has built up a skilled set of communicators that effectively hold his same passion for agriculture. "Kim's passion, drive and enthusiasm are extremely contagious. Through his sound leadership, the agency has attracted top-notch talent, creating teams that consistently deliver successful creative and media-savvy solutions. These teams work hard to generate industry connections for businesses operating in agriculture or agri-food", says Ben Graham, President of AdFarm Canada Inc.

"Kim has taught AdFarmers to act as a catalyst for the industry. In doing so, our people have built and branded Canadian agriculture, promoted healthy perceptions of the industry, and re-tooled vital stakeholder relations; all while maintaining strong connections with the media, rural communities and the ever-eclectic urban consumer", says Graham.

Kim McConnell is an industry pioneer who continues to be a catalyst for the advancement of agriculture. We celebrate his induction and honour his successes. The induction ceremony itself will take place on Sunday November 4, 2012 in the Centennial Room at The Liberty Grand, Exhibition Place in Toronto, Ontario.

ABOUT ADFARM
AdFarm is a full-service marketing and communications company, focused entirely on agriculture, food and rural issues. AdFarm is committed to supporting the advancement of agriculture, building stronger rural communities, helping to manage communications from all angles of the food and agriculture industry, and contributing, where possible, to a healthy North American food model. Our 100 full-time professionals work in six AdFarm offices across North America. Offices are located in Calgary, AB; Guelph, ON; Sacramento, CA; Kansas City, MO; St. Louis, MO and Fargo, ND. www.adfarmonline.com

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES OR TO SCHEDULE AN INTERVIEW PLEASE CALL:
Wendy Ell
403-410-7606

AdFarm is an integrated marketing branding and digital agency with uncommon expertise in agriculture.