Jan 7, 2016

Matt McCallum honored with agriculture industry awards

Great American Media Services CEO Matt McCallum was recently honored at the 2015 Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market EXPO for his long-standing dedication to the agriculture industry. The Michigan State Horticultural Society honored McCallum with its Distinguished Service Award, while the Michigan Vegetable Council presented him with its Master Farmer Associate Award.

“It was a great honor to receive these awards from the industries I grew up in,” McCallum said. “Our mission with our publications is to engage, educate and inspire growers every day. This industry makes it easy to love my job!”

McCallum grew up on a family farm in St. Clare County, Michigan. McCallum’s Orchard grew fruits, vegetables and operated a farm market. At age 12, he began working at the market and learning the value of hard work. He purchased Great American Media Services in 1993. The company currently employees 42 professionals in seven state and produces 14 national trade magazines. While McCallum first specialized in print, he has since expanded to include digital media, social networking and events.

“I’m extremely grateful to the MSU Research and Extension folks who help support us through writing columns, serving as expert sources for stories and providing excellent field days and educational programs where we get so many of our story ideas,” McCallum said. “In addition, the many growers who have been gracious enough to welcome us on their farms for interviews and photographs are vital contributors to our success.” McCallum said.

Matt and his wife Julie have been married for 25 years and are parents to four children, three girls and a boy. They currently live in Sparta, Michigan on 64 acres. The family grows pumpkins, gourds and fresh-cut flowers. In his free time, McCallum coaches the Sparta High School varsity girls’ basketball team.

Visit the Resources tab on the Fruit Growers News website to watch a video interview with McCallum. Additional information about Great American Media Services can be found online, at www.greatamericanmediaservices.com.