During the 26th Annual Ethanol Conference in Des Moines, Iowa, the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) honored several ethanol advocates. The first award was given by ACE President Ron Alverson, who each year has the opportunity to give the President’s Award to someone who goes above and beyond the industry. This year, Alverson distilled the honor on Brian Jennings, ACE executive vice president, for his tireless work on behalf of the industry to not only promote the benefits of the ethanol industry, but also help promote the people of the industry and the work they do.
The most prestigious award presented by ACE, the Merle Anderson Award is presented annually to recognize an individual who has made distinguished and significant contributions to the advancement of the U.S. ethanol industry. This year the award was bestowed on Tom Vilsack, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary.
The strength of ACE is found within the collective grassroots, devoted individuals who often perform behind the scenes to advance the cause of ethanol. These “unsung heroes” of the U.S. ethanol industry and agriculture are recognized with the ACE Grassroots Award. This year’s winner is Chuck DeGrote with Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company (CVEC).
The Policy & Legislative Leadership Award is presented to a policymaker at the state or federal level for introducing or championing public policies that promote the U.S. ethanol industry and strengthen rural America. This year’s honoree is Senator Charles Grassley (R-IA).
The Paul Dana Marketing Vision Award (formerly Fields to Fuel Marketing Award) an award to recognize individuals or companies in the U.S. who exhibit leadership in marketing ethanol. The award winner this year is Bruce Vollan with Vollan Oil.
The ACE Media Excellence Award goes to those in the media who demonstrate excellence in covering news and issues important to the U.S. ethanol industry. This year Chris Clayton with DTN won the honor.
*Those not pictured were unable to accept their award in person.