History

Since 1902, the Agromeck has chronicled the lives of students at N.C. State. According to the staff of the 2002 edition, the “Agromeck is chartered to present ‘a picture and word record of the year’s events utilizing the artistic and journalistic talents of the university community.’” The yearbook is the longest-running student publication.

After much deliberation, the book received the Agromeck title in 1902 because at the time the university was named the North Carolina College of Agricultural and Mechanical Arts. Combining agriculture and mechanical arts yielded the name Agromeck. The current Agromeck signature was scanned from the first yearbook off a picture of a blackboard with a list of possible names for the book.

In 1966 the editor tried to change the name of the yearbook to Phase 66. Each subsequent year the name of the book would be Phase and the year. He was successful in convincing the student body to buy into the new name, but student government stepped in and said the book would keep the name Agromeck.

The 21st century would bring more challenges for the Agromeck. Three consecutive yearbooks were shipped in 2003. The ‘01, ‘02 and ‘03 books were finished in one calendar year after missed deadlines and staff change-overs pushed back completion of the books.

Freshman directory

The freshmen directory was first published for the incoming class of 2003. The directory includes history about the university, traditions, school songs, information about Greek life on campus and a portrait section featuring incoming freshman.

Awards

The 2004 Agromeck, edited by Jaime Trivette, won a Silver Crown award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. The Silver Crown is one of the highest awards given nationally to collegiate publications. It is the first time any publication at N.C. State has won a Crown award. Other top staff members on the 2004 edition included Josh Bassett, designer; Austin Dowd, photo editor; Rob Bradley, Pete Ellis and Ray Black, photographers; and Erik Snyder and Adam Dunn, writers.

The Associated Collegiate Press nominated the 2004 edition for a Yearbook Pacemaker award, from 62 entries. It is one of 14  finalists in the competition. Since 1927, the Pacemaker has been the highest honor ACP gives to its members.

The staff has received numerous individual awards. Rob Bradley, Taylor Templeton, Austin Dowd and Josh Bassett all won individual awards for their work on the 2004 Agromeck.