Adding to the accolades already earned, the Communications Department for Carroll EMC was recently recognized by the Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA) for a profile featurette written by Communications Specialist and newly named Master Cooperative Communicator (MCC), Brittany Shadix.
CCA is a national organization made of professional, cooperative communicators from across the country and various industries. It aims to build a forum where members can create, connect and achieve through professional development opportunities including educational webinars, workshops and conferences as well as an annual contest and certification program that showcases participants’ industry knowledge and expertise.
This year, the work of Carroll EMC’s Communications Specialist, Brittany Shadix, earned the cooperative a silver award in the CCA Communications Contest for a newsletter article about McKenna Farms, a local organization that provides equine-assisted therapy to special needs children.
“We’re a department of two which means we both carry a heavy load,” said Kelly Jimenez, Communications Director for Carroll EMC and CCA board member. “Creativity isn’t something we always have time for, so when we are recognized for our creative work, it means a lot.”
Nearly 400 submissions from 37 different cooperatives were entered in the contest in the following categories: photography, programs and projects, publications and writing. To be considered for an award, applicants must complete an online application outlining details of the project including objectives, goals and production process. Volunteer judges, with a demonstrated history in communications, score each entry based on category-specific criteria.
All contest winners were recognized at an awards ceremony during the CCA Institute in Portland, ME. New MCC designees, including Shadix, were also recognized. Candidates for the credential were required to submit a portfolio of education and employment history, professional development participation, work samples and a letter of recommendation.
Shadix was among four who earned their credentials.