Amy (Meyer) Roady, 2000
University of Illinois
Currently, I serve as communications director for the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA). Prior to working for ISA, I was a 4-H youth development educator for University of Illinois Extension, regional editor for three weekly newspapers and copy editor/page designer for a daily newspaper. During fall 2012, I also taught an introductory agricultural communications class at the University of Illinois. I also have done guest lectures at Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, where I received my master's degree in journalism in 2002.
My husband, Patrick, and I live in Mahomet, Ill. We have two sons, Brandon and Jacob.
Since graduating, I have supported the University of Illinois Ag Communications program through serving on the Ag Communications Alumni Leadership Council, hosting students during job shadow programs, lecturing to classes and speaking on the program's behalf. In fall 2012, I received the College of ACES Young Alumni Award.
I also have been an active member of the American Agricultural Editors' Association. This year, I am serving as the Ag Media Summit program chair. I also serve on the membership committee. Last year, I received a stipend from AAEA's Professional Improvement Fund (PIF) to attend the 2012 IFAJ Congress in Sweden.
The internship was extremely rewarding and gave me an opportunity to serve the dairy industry while developing my journalism skills. The internship fueled my interest in journalism and magazine publishing. It's what led me to specialize in magazine publishing for my master's degree at Northwestern University. I learned a lot that summer. My communications skills improved, but more importantly I learned what it's like to work in the industry. The experience, along with my education, laid the groundwork for my career.
