Swanson Russell Continues Tradition of Recognition at 2026 Best of NAMA Awards

Swanson Russell continued its long-standing tradition of recognition at this year’s Best of NAMA Awards, held by the National Agri-Marketing Association. The agency earned honors at the 2026 Region II judging of the National Agri-Marketing Association on January 8 in Kansas City for its partnership with Cattlemen’s Beef Board and the purposeful communication platforms developed to engage beef producers.

FIRST PLACE AWARD:

• Cattlemen’s Beef Board – The Drive Emails

MERIT AWARD:

• Cattlemen’s Beef Board – The Drive Newsletters

Both awards recognize the continued evolution of The Drive as a strategic communications initiative designed to inform, engage and build trust with beef producers. Through clear storytelling, thoughtful structure and a publisher-minded approach, the work reinforces the value of the Beef Checkoff while keeping producers at the center of the message.

Andrew Warner, Account Director and agribusiness development lead at Swanson Russell, emphasized the collaboration behind the work and the shared commitment to doing work that matters.

“This recognition speaks to the strength of our partnership with Cattlemen’s Beef Board,” Warner said. “The work succeeds because it’s built collaboratively and grounded in respect for producers — their time, their perspective and their investment. When the goal is meaningful communication, not just output, the impact is stronger.”

As the Nation’s Leading Agency for Brands That Work and Play Outdoors, Swanson Russell brings more than 60 years of experience helping agribusiness brands connect with audiences. That focus is rooted in the agency’s mission to Make Belief™ — guiding how it approaches agricultural marketing and client partnerships.

“In agriculture, belief is earned through clarity, honesty and purpose,” said Brent Schott, CEO of Swanson Russell. “That’s why our work with organizations like Cattlemen’s Beef Board is focused on transparency — helping producers see how their dollars are working and why it matters.”

The Best of NAMA Awards highlight excellence in agricultural marketing, recognizing campaigns that address organizational challenges through audience-focused strategies and measurable results. Select regional winners will advance to national judging at the Agri-Marketing Conference on April 15 in St. Louis.