New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball, in celebration of Women’s History Month, announced that nominations are open for the 2025 Women in Agriculture Awards.
Presented on Women’s Day at The Great New York State Fair, the Women in Agriculture Awards recognize and celebrate the contributions of women in New York’s agricultural sector. Now in their second year, the Awards seek to shine a spotlight on the many inspiring female leaders shaping the future of the industry, with 10 different categories showcasing the incredible range of agricultural excellence in New York State. In honoring women across the agricultural sector, the Awards support the theme of this year’s Women’s History Month, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” which celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership.
The Women in Agriculture Awards annually honor 10 women for their contributions in areas including research, legacy, sustainability, veterinary practice, leadership, innovation, mentorship, overall achievement, and more. Nominations may be submitted at agriculture.ny.gov/womeninagnominations and are being accepted now in the following categories:
- Industry Legend Award: This awardee has a minimum of 20 years in the agricultural industry and has demonstrated a significant impact on the industry through leadership, innovation, or mentorship. This awardee is recognized by peers and industry organizations for outstanding contributions to the field of agriculture.
- Rising Star Award: This awardee has 1-5 years in the agricultural industry and has shown exceptional promise and achievement in the early stages of their career.
- Innovator in Ag Award: This awardee is actively involved in agricultural research and implementation of innovative practices to improve the agricultural field.
- Urban Farmer Award: This awardee operates an urban farming business or community garden, demonstrating sustainable and innovative urban farming practices and helping to contribute to local food security and community health through urban agriculture efforts and education.
- Golden Hoof Award: This awardee specializes in animal husbandry, veterinary services, or apiculture, demonstrating exemplary care, management, and innovation in their specific field. This awardee engages in education or advocacy efforts related to animal welfare.
- Rooted Success Award: This awardee specializes in plant cultivation, horticulture, or floriculture, demonstrating contributions to the sustainability, beautification, and productivity of the environment through plant science. This awardee may engage in education, outreach, or community projects related to horticulture.
- Dairy Dynamo Award: This awardee operates or manages a dairy farm with high standards of animal care and production, actively demonstrating excellence in dairy farming practices. This awardee consistently demonstrates excellence in dairy farming and is recognized for their contributions to the local or national dairy industry.
- Empower Through Ag Award: This awardee owns or operates a MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises) and/or SDVOB (Division of Service-Disabled Veterans’ Business Development) agricultural business, actively supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives in the agricultural sector. This awardee may engage in community support and advocacy for minority or Veteran women farmers.
- Friend of The Fair, Director’s Award: This award is given to a woman or group of women who continue to work toward the betterment of the fairgoer experience and supporting agricultural education at The New York State Fair.
- Leaving it Better Award: This awardee is selected by Commissioner Ball. Inspired by the saying “Leaving it Better,” this awardee is selected for their legacy impact on the agricultural community and is seen as a leader in their field.
Nominations are open now and will close May 9, 2025 at 5:00 pm. All submissions will be reviewed by a committee of State Fair and Agriculture and Markets employees whose work covers a diverse range of agricultural sectors, with winners selected and notified in June. Award winners will be invited to attend a special presentation and awards ceremony at The New York State Fair’s Women’s Day Breakfast on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 9:00 am.
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