PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release
DATE www.agr.ne.gov		Contact: Christin Kamm (402) 471-6856 (402) 440-7251 (cell)

LINCOLN - The Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute (NAYI) Award of Merit was recently awarded to Stan Garbacz, a 28-year employee of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA). The award was presented during NAYI on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus.

For 24 years, Garbacz was responsible for overseeing the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council. The Council is comprised of college-age men and women who are responsible for the coordination of the NAYI.

In September of 2005, Garbacz became the NDA's Agricultural Trade Representative, and oversaw his last NAYI in the summer of 2006.

"Through his NAYI leadership, Stan has encouraged thousands of Nebraska youth to consider a career in agriculture," said NDA Director Greg Ibach. "His dedication to the NAYI program through the years makes him more than worthy of this award."

During Garbacz's 28 years with NDA, he has served in the Budget and Finance Division, as well as serving 18 years as the Administrator of the Agriculture Promotion and Development Division. In his current role as NDA's Agricultural Trade Representative, Garbacz is responsible for international market development for Nebraska's agricultural products.

Several NAYC alumi were on hand to help Garbacz celebrate his award.

NAYI is an annual conference, sponsored by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, that encourages high school juniors and seniors to learn more about current agricultural issues, develop leadership skills, and cultivate their interest in making agriculture a part of their future.

Award of Merit nominations are received from agriculture education advisers, University of Nebraska professors, past Award of Merit recipients, and other agricultural leaders. The Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council then reviews the nominees' contributions and achievements.