Florida Farm Bureau Members Honor Agricultural Leaders at 85th Annual Meeting
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ANNUAL MEETING ...
Florida Farm Bureau Federation 85th Annual Meeting. (Photo provided)
Daytona Beach, Fla. (November 3, 2026) — More than 300 grassroots members of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation gathered at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort for the organization’s 85th Annual Meeting, held October 28-30, 2026.
The three-day event featured:
- Educational sessions
- Networking opportunities
- Recognition of outstanding farmers, ranchers, agricultural leaders, lawmakers, community partners, and county Farm Bureaus.
Statewide Award Recipients:
- 2026 Florida Farmer of the Year: Dr. Hal Phillips, Levy County
- Distinguished Service Awards: Keith Free, Okaloosa County; Richard Terry, Madison County
- Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Achievement in Agriculture Award: David and Libby Torbert, Dade County
- YF&R Excellence in Agriculture Award: Sarah Luther, Alachua County
- YF&R Discussion Meet Award: Lainey Francisco, St. Lucie County
- Collegiate Discussion Meet Award: Braley Hines, University of Florida
- Youth Speech Contest Winner: Holden Webb, Union County
- Extension Professional of the Year: Mark Mauldin, Washington County
- Newsperson of the Year: Jess McDonald, Polk County
- Volunteer Communicator of the Year: K’Leigh Combs, Duval County
- Excellence in Crop Advising Award: Dr. Elizabeth Malek, Collier County
- Legislators of the Year: Sen. Keith Truenow and Rep. Danny Alvarez
- Team Player of the Year: Lisa Loomis, Alachua County
- Commissioner’s Ag-Environmental Leadership Award: Ernie Barnett
Multiple county Farm Bureaus were also recognized for excellence in membership growth and participation in programs offered through the Florida Agricultural Marketing Association (FAMA).
Leadership Elections:
Voting delegates reelected Steve Johnson to serve as Florida Farm Bureau vice president. Delegates also elected Robert Norman (District 8) to the Florida Farm Bureau Board of Directors, succeeding Glenn Ritch.
Women’s Leadership Program:
The Florida Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Program held its annual meeting in conjunction with the state convention. Members recognized outgoing leaders and celebrated county program achievements.
Delegates elected:
- Ellie John (District 8) as vice chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee
- Katie Quincey (District 4), Laura Tambone (District 9), and Cheryl Fulford Flood (District 6) as members
- Kylie Campbell as YF&R representative, succeeding Shelby Thomas (Union County), who will serve as the YF&R class president.