Joseph A. Ackerman

Dr. Ackerman was instrumental in the advancement of the agricultural economics field through his work with the Farm Foundation, serving as its managing director for 15 years. He helped to develop the regional committee structure, allowing economists to improve the quality of their research, teaching and extension activities. His work resulted in significant contributions to the literature of agricultural economics and improvement in the well being of rural residents. After retiring from the Farm Foundation in 1969, Dr. Ackerman spent three years developing programs in agricultural economics in India through the University of Illinois Ford Foundation. After his return, he served as director of the National Employment Registry for Agricultural Economists for the AAEA.

Dr. Ackerman was named a fellow of the AAEA in 1964 and served as secretary-treasurer of the International Association of Agricultural Economists. He helped to revitalize the American Country Life Association while serving as president in the years following World War II (1947-48). Epsilon Sigma Phi, national honorary extension fraternity, recognized him in 1959 for his outstanding service to the extension profession. He also served as national president of the FarmHouse Fraternity from 1948 to 1952.