KC Sheperd, farm director at the Radio Oklahoma Ag Network, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Milt Hakel Award for Excellence in Broadcasting. The honor, presented by the National Farmers Union (NFU), recognizes outstanding achievement in agricultural journalism and farm broadcasting.
A seasoned radio professional, Sheperd's journey into broadcasting began at age 20 while attending Southwestern Oklahoma State University. What started as a reluctant internship in the newsroom quickly transformed into a lifelong passion.
“I told them I never wanted to do news—and of course, that’s exactly where they put me,” she said. “But I had the chance to learn from one of the best, someone who had worked with Paul Harvey.”
Her radio career has taken her across the country, from morning shows in Corpus Christi during 9/11 to large-market radio in Oklahoma City. But after a corporate shake-up ended one radio chapter, Sheperd found herself in an unexpected role—working in IT project management for companies like Chesapeake Energy and Love’s.
Still, she couldn’t stay away from the microphone for long. She returned to the airwaves at Hank FM and eventually found her way to agriculture broadcasting through a chance call.
“I remember telling my husband, ‘Some folks want to hire me to do ag radio,’ and he said, ‘Is that even a real job?’” Sheperd laughed. “But five years later, here I am.”
Sheperd’s recognition with the Hakel Award was a surprise nomination from Chase Adams of National Farmers Union, a group she’s built close ties with since her very first NAFB Trade Talk.
“It was incredibly humbling,” she said. “The NFU team has always treated me with respect and kindness, and to be honored by them meant the world.”
When asked what she enjoys most about farm broadcasting, Sheperd is quick to answer: the relationships.
“These aren’t just sources. They’re friends,” she said. “My goal is always to tell their stories truthfully and respectfully. In a media world full of noise, that trust means everything.”
Sheperd received the award in March during the NFU Convention.
