TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Governor Rick Scott this week presented the “Great Floridian” award to George Wedgworth on behalf of the late 
Ruth Springer Wedgworth during the Great Floridian reception at the Governor’s Mansion. The 2013 Class of Great Floridians is a prestigious group of men and women who have made significant contributions to the progress and prosperity of Florida.
Ruth Springer Wedgworth
Ruth Springer Wedgworth came to Palm Beach County in 1930 as the wife of an agricultural scientist. She built a small family farm into one of the state’s most prominent agribusinesses. Ruth Springer Wedgworth received a Distinguished Service Award from the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association and was named Woman of the Year in Florida Agriculture in 1986.
Founder of Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida and Chairman of Wedgworth Farms, Inc. & Chairman of Wedgworth Farms George Wedgworth said, “Our whole family is honored that the Governor selected our mother for this prestigious award.”
Only 89 individuals since 1981 have been given this distinct honor, and those honorees represent former governors, civil rights activists, military heroes, Florida Supreme Court Justices and others.
Governor Scott said, “It is an honor to recognize the accomplishments of the 2013 Class of Great Floridians. Their leadership and determination has helped families in Florida and across the nation. I look forward to seeing how each one of them continues to impact Florida families.”
Secretary of State Ken Detzner said, “I am very proud to recognize these 23 truly Great Floridians for 2013 whose talents and generosity have helped make Florida a better place to live and be successful. This year’s honorees represent the largest class of Great Floridians, and I look forward to seeing how their collective contributions continue to positively influence future generations.”