Des Moines, IA – [Current Date] – The 2023 Borlaug CAST Communication Award (BCCA) will be presented to Dr. Alison Bentley, Plant Geneticist and Bayer Visiting Scholar in the Plant Breeding Center at The University of Minnesota, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to wheat research and her exceptional dedication to science communication. The award ceremony will take place Oct. 25, 2023, during a breakfast and presentation event at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, Iowa, from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. BCCA will be held as a side event at the International Borlaug Dialogue as part of the World Food Prize.

Dr. Bentley’s remarkable career in research has made her a revered figure in the agricultural science community. Her groundbreaking contributions to the field have advanced our understanding of wheat and significantly impacted global agriculture, food security and nutrition.

Beyond her scientific achievements, Dr. Bentley is celebrated for her exceptional mentorship and advocacy efforts. During her career, Dr. Bentley has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers. Her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences, considering their unique backgrounds and interests, has been pivotal in raising awareness and garnering support for vital agricultural research. Dr. Bentley’s media prowess and dedication have been instrumental in advancing the cause of agricultural science, particularly in the critical areas of food and nutrition security.

In the words of Dr. Bentley, “As the 2023 BCCA recipient, it is an honor to join the illustrious company of the past awardees. The fragility of our current food and agricultural systems means that, more than ever, scientists need to effectively communicate the science we do and why it matters. Science is much more than experiments in isolation: it is about integrating ideas, working across disciplines and scales, and finding new ways to tackle the most challenging of problems. Receiving the BCCA is a fantastic recognition of this and of the global nature of science. It is also a reminder of the importance of working harder to achieve gender equity in science.”

Dr. Bentley’s “Speaking up for Speaking Out” presentation will highlight the importance of scientific leadership and communication in driving positive change. Reflecting on the historical significance of individuals and movements in progressing scientific and social goals, her talk will underscore some of the key events of recent years that have significantly impacted the global food system. Moreover, it will emphasize the importance of the fight for gender equality and how empowering a more diverse scientific and agricultural community can lead to more effective solutions for the future.

The Borlaug CAST Communication Award, named in honor of Dr. Norman Borlaug, a Nobel Prize laureate and author of the first CAST publication and Dr. Charles A. Black, the first executive vice president of CAST, is presented annually to recognize outstanding achievements by scientists, engineers, technologists, and other professionals in the agricultural, environmental or food sectors. These individuals are acknowledged for their significant contributions to advancing science through effective communication in the public policy arena.

Please visit our landing page to register for the event and for more information about the 2023 Borlaug CAST Communication Award.

What: 2023 Borlaug CAST Communication Award Presentation to Dr. Alison Bentley

When: Oct. 25, 2023, 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Where: Iowa Events Center, Des Moines, Iowa

About CAST

CAST is a nonprofit organization comprising scientific societies, companies, nonprofits and individuals. It provides credible, balanced and science-based information to policymakers, media, the private sector and the public through a network of experts. CAST publishes papers written and reviewed by volunteer scientists and subject experts across disciplines. It is funded through membership dues, gifts and grants. Learn more at cast-science.org.

About the World Food Prize:

The World Food Prize is an international event that recognizes individuals’ achievements in improving food quality, quantity and availability worldwide. It serves as a platform to discuss global food security and agricultural advancements.