Commissioner Adam Putnam Names Judi Whitson as 2016 Woman of the Year in Agriculture

From the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services:

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.–Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam today announced that Florida native Judi Whitson has been named the 2016 Woman of the Year in Agriculture. Judi Whitson has dedicated herself to the advancement of Florida agriculture, agriculture education and youth programs. The award, now in its 32nd year, recognizes women who have made outstanding contributions to Florida agriculture.

“I am proud to recognize Judi Whitson as the 2016 Woman of the Year in Agriculture. Her dedication to agricultural education and engaging Florida’s youth is an immeasurable asset to our industry,” said Commissioner Adam H. Putnam.

Judi was born into a Navy family in Brooksville, Fla. and moved with each change of her father’s duty station, ultimately returning to her home state where she graduated from Jacksonville’s Ribault High School in 1969. In 1991, Judi became the Executive Director of the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and tackled the challenge of bringing together one of the most agriculturally productive counties in the state. Her efforts resulted in the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau becoming one of the leading counties in terms of membership, involvement and overall achievement.

Judi’s passion for Florida agriculture is evident in her contributions to numerous ag-centered programs. With assistance from educators in Exceptional Student Education (ESE), Judi developed and wrote the curriculum for the Ag-Abilities program, which is designed to teach ESE students the many facets of agriculture and prepare them for possible careers in the industry. Annually, over 130 ESE students throughout the county benefit from this unique and enriching program. Judi also co-founded the Ag Venture educational program. Each year 7,200 students and approximately 37,000 fair goers enjoy the opportunity to touch, taste and see Florida agriculture in action.

Judi’s involvement in the Xtreme Cuisine program highlights “Fresh from Florida” commodities while teaching nutrition to elementary and middle school children. Additionally, Judi actively advocates for family farms, works to bolster 4-H and FFA programs throughout the state, and donates countless volunteer hours to the Florida Strawberry Festival, Farm City Week and Food Check-out Week.

The Woman of the Year in Agriculture award is sponsored by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida State Fair Authority, and the award will be presented to the recipient during the 2017 Florida State Fair in Tampa.

For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.