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 Oct. 28-30, 2026.
The three-day event featured educational sessions, networking opportunities and recognition of outstanding farmers, ranchers, agricultural leaders, lawmakers, community partners and county Farm Bureaus for their contributions to agriculture and the organization.
2026 Annual Meeting Photos Videos
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) to serve as vice chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee, succeeding retiring Vice Chair Danielle Daum. Katie Quincey (District 4), Laura Tambone (District 9) and Cheryl Fulford Flood (District 6) were also elected. Kylie Campbell will serve as the YF&R representative, succeeding Shelby Thomas (Union County), who will serve as the YF&R class president. Kelsey Waters-David will serve as past president.
Florida Farm Bureau extends its sincere appreciation to the members, volunteers, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, staff and community partners whose dedication and support helped make the 85th Annual Meeting a success. Their continued commitment strengthens Florida agriculture and the Farm Bureau mission to increase the net income of farmers and ranchers, and to improve the quality of rural life.
We look forward to continuing this important work together.
