January 2025
Marshal and Taylor Sewell of Levy County were named the 2025 Excellence in Agriculture award winners by American Farm Bureau at the organization’s annual convention on Jan. 27.
The Sewells are the founders of the Mind Your Melon Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to mental health advocacy and awareness for farmers and ranchers.
“We’re really excited to continue to spread the message around Mind Your Melon and bring awareness to the topic of mental health for farmers and ranchers and represent the state of Florida,” said Taylor.
“We were certainly not expecting to win; we were just excited for the opportunity to represent Florida,” added Marshal. “Having the chance to be announced the winners and to have the opportunity to win a Ford truck has been a blessing for our family. We’re grateful for the opportunity and thankful to Farm Bureau for the support.”
The couple received $35,000 in credit toward a new Ford vehicle, as well as paid registration to the Farm Bureau FUSION Conference, which will be held March 7-10 in Denver, Colorado. Both prizes are provided by Ford Motor Company.
The Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes young farmers and ranchers who do not derive the majority of their income from an agricultural operation, but who actively contribute and grow through their involvement in agriculture, leadership ability and participation in Farm Bureau and other organizations.