Honoring individuals whose career-long contributions have advanced agricultural science, communication, and science-based leadership in food, agriculture, and the environment.
The CAST Lifetime Achievement Award (CLAA) is CAST’s highest individual honor, recognizing individuals whose sustained contributions have advanced agricultural science, science communication, or science-based leadership in food, agriculture, and the environment.
Established in 2025, the award was created to honor leaders at the pinnacle of careers defined by purpose — scientists, communicators, diplomats, educators, and advocates who have connected agricultural knowledge to real-world impact over decades of service.
The award is presented annually and is open to individuals from all nations. Candidates must be living persons. Self-nominations are not accepted.
The inaugural award was presented to Ambassador Kenneth M. Quinn, former U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia and President Emeritus of the World Food Prize Foundation, in October 2025 during the World Food Prize events in Des Moines, Iowa.
Primary consideration is given to candidates who:
Have made significant contributions at the national or international level; and
All disciplines related to agricultural, environmental, and food science are eligible — including research, education, policy, communication, diplomacy, and leadership.
Supporting the next generation of agricultural science communicators.
Honoring mid-career professionals making a difference in ag science communication.
CAST’s highest honor — for sustained, career-long impact at the national or international level.
The 2026 award will be presented on Wednesday, December 10, 2026 — the anniversary of Dr. Norman Borlaug’s acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970. Nominations closed July 31, 2026. The recipient will be announced by September 30, 2026.
President Emeritus, World Food Prize Foundation | Former U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia
Honored for nearly six decades of service advancing agricultural development, global food security, and science diplomacy — from introducing “miracle rice” in Vietnam in 1968 to leading the World Food Prize Foundation.
Presented October 22, 2025 · Des Moines, Iowa
