"Without food, there can be no peace. Without science, there can be no food."
The Borlaug CAST Communication Award (BCCA) is presented annually for outstanding achievement by a scientist, engineer, technologist, or other professional working in the agricultural, environmental, or food sectors for contributing to the advancement of science in the public policy arena.
Established in 2010, the award honors the legacies of two giants of agricultural science: Dr. Norman E. Borlaug — “The Man Who Fed the World” and author of CAST’s first publication in 1973 — and Dr. Charles A. Black, CAST’s first President, first Executive Vice President, and member of CAST’s founding committee. The award was previously known as the Charles A. Black Award (1986–2009).
Each recipient receives a custom-made bronze sculpture, “A World Supported by Plants and Animals,” created by acclaimed sculptor Jerry Palen — whose bronzes have been gifted by every U.S. President since Jimmy Carter.
About the Bronze: Each recipient receives a custom-made bronze sculpture, “A World Supported by Plants and Animals,” created by sculptor Jerry Palen — an award-winning artist who received the 2009 Governor’s Arts Award. His iconic “Stampede” cartoon series runs in agricultural publications across the U.S. and Canada. Palen’s bronzes have been gifted by every U.S. President since Jimmy Carter. Learn more at jerrypalen.com.
Primary consideration is given to mid-career candidates who:
Nominees must demonstrate communication ability through written material, public presentations, and/or use of television, radio, and social media. All disciplines are eligible. Candidates must be living persons. Self-nominations are not accepted. Individuals from all nations are eligible.
Supporting the next generation of agricultural science communicators at the student level.
CAST’s premier annual honor — recognizing mid-career professionals bridging science and society.
CAST’s honor — for sustained, career-long impact at the national or international level.
CAST has named Dr. Karim Maredia, Professor, Associate Dean & Director of World Agriculture Center at Michigan State University, as the 2026 Borlaug CAST Communication Award recipient. Dr. Maredia will be honored on December 10, 2026 — the anniversary of Dr. Norman Borlaug’s acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 — at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.
"It is a great honor and deeply humbling to receive this prestigious award. The award celebrates not only my individual efforts but also the enduring power of partnerships, collaborations, and shared vision across national and international boundaries. It reflects our shared commitment to advancing science, technology, and innovation toward a food-secure world, while recognizing the vital role of effective communication in connecting science with society. I am very grateful to my dedicated colleagues, partners, and collaborators whose collective efforts have made this journey both meaningful and rewarding."
Agricultural Economist, Michigan State University
Honored for his exceptional work translating food systems economics into accessible public discourse — reaching policymakers, media, and the public through research, commentary, and digital platforms.
Author & Food Futurist
Recognized for bridging the gap between consumers and the food science community, helping global audiences understand and engage with the future of food and agriculture.
Plant Scientist & Wheat Researcher
Recognized for advancing global wheat research and communicating the science of food security to international audiences, policymakers, and the next generation of agricultural scientists.
