Joy Carter Crosby has been named the recipient of the J. Lamar Branch Award for Outstanding Leadership in Agriculture, recognizing her contributions to agricultural communication and advocacy across Georgia.

The award highlights an alumnus who demonstrates leadership in a non-production area of agriculture and natural resources. Established in 1987, the honor commemorates J. Lamar Branch, an influential agricultural leader and graduate of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.

Crosby attended ABAC from 1993 to 1995, earning an Associate of Applied Science in agriculture. During her time on campus, she participated in several student organizations, including the ABAC Ambassadors, ABAC FFA and the Cattlemen’s Association, where she held leadership roles. She later continued her education at the University of Georgia, completing a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and a master’s degree in agricultural leadership.

“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized by the ABAC Alumni Association with the J. Lamar Branch Award,” Crosby said. “ABAC helped shape my path, and the friendships and experiences I gained there will always mean so much to me. I’m grateful to be part of such a special agricultural community.”

Crosby has spent more than 25 years with the Georgia Peanut Commission, advancing through several roles to her current position as assistant executive director. In her work, she has played a key role in shaping how the peanut industry shares information with the public, from media outreach and marketing initiatives to digital engagement and event planning.

She oversees the production of the Southeastern Peanut Farmer magazine and manages multiple websites and social media platforms that highlight the work of growers and industry partners. Her efforts have also included developing video storytelling projects and media collaborations that connect consumers with farm families.

Her professional achievements have earned national recognition. Crosby has received Master Writer, Master Photographer and Master Communicator designations through the Agricultural Communicators Network, where she currently serves as president. She has also been recognized by organizations such as FFA, ABAC and the University of Georgia.

In addition to her professional responsibilities, Crosby has invested in mentoring future agricultural communicators. She has supervised more than 20 interns, including many from ABAC, and has remained actively engaged with the college through service on alumni leadership groups and as a guest speaker in classes and student organizations.

Crosby was presented the award by ABAC alumna Carrie Crabtree during the institution’s alumni awards program on April 10. She currently lives in Tifton, Georgia, and was raised in Lake Park, Georgia.