News Release

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The National Institute for Animal Agriculture’s (NIAA) 2005 Chairman’s Award was presented to J. Amelita Facchiano, of GlobalVetLink, LC in Dallas, Tex., here tonight during the organization’s annual recognition banquet.

The Chairman’s Award, given to the, which recognizes the organization’s Volunteer of the Year, was bestowed upon Facchiano for “possessing the true spirit of volunteerism,” according to NIAA Chairman of the Board Dr. Rick Sibbel.  “Amelita embodies the true meaning of volunteer, always willing to step up and offer assistance and service to this organization.”

Past Recipients of the award are: Dr. Kenneth Olson, Federation of Animal Science Societies (2001), Jim Fraley, Illinois Farm Bureau (2002), Neil Hammerschmidt, Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium (2003), and last year, collectively, to the members of the U.S. Animal Identification Plan (USAIP) Steering Committee.

The National Institute for Animal Agriculture began operations in January 2000.  NIAA's mission is to provide a forum for building consensus and advancing solutions for animal agriculture and to provide continuing education and communication linkages for animal agriculture professionals.

The organization is dedicated to programs that work towards the eradication of diseases that pose a risk to the health of animals, wildlife and humans; promote a safe and wholesome food supply for our nation and abroad; and promote best practices in environmental stewardship, animal health and well-being.

Members include professionals engaged in animal agriculture including producers, veterinarians, scientists, government representatives and business executives.