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DAYTONA BEACH ‒ A fifth-generation agriculturalist from Gilchrist County has earned one of Florida Farm Bureau’s top honors for young professionals making a difference in the state’s farming community.

Katie Quincey was awarded first place in the Florida Farm Bureau’s 2025 Excellence in Agriculture competition, announced during the organization’s 84th Annual Meeting in Daytona Beach on Oct. 27.

The prestigious award recognizes agricultural leaders who are actively involved in the farming industry and their communities, highlighting innovation, leadership, and advocacy for Florida agriculture.

Quincey, a former middle and high school agriculture teacher, currently serves as a field technician for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). She played a key role helping develop Florida’s Small Farms Best Management Practices (BMPs) manual, an important tool for guiding environmentally responsible and economically sustainable farming practices across the state.

As the state winner, Quincey received several prizes, including a utility vehicle courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Life Company, $500 in cash, and an expense-paid trip to the 2026 American Farm Bureau Annual Convention in Anaheim, California, where she will represent Florida and compete for the national Excellence in Agriculture title.

“Winning the Excellence in Agriculture award is a major honor,” said Quincey. “It’s not just about the work I’ve done; it’s about how others have poured into me and how I can make a positive impact on agriculture in return. I can’t wait to represent Florida with American Farm Bureau Federation in January. We’re bringing some sunshine to the Golden State.”

Quincey’s roots in farming run deep in North Central Florida. As a fifth-generation agriculturalist, she has dedicated her career to advancing farm education, improving soil and water conservation, and mentoring the next generation of producers.

She is also an active member of the Gilchrist County Farm Bureau, serving as the women’s chair, on the county board, and as part of the Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Team, a statewide network supporting leadership development and agricultural advocacy among young professionals.

The Excellence in Agriculture competition recognizes individuals who do not derive the majority of their income from farming but still make substantial contributions to Florida’s agricultural industry through their work, service, and leadership.

Contestants are judged on their professional growth, community involvement, and leadership achievements in Farm Bureau programs and other civic organizations.

Quincey and other finalists presented their accomplishments to a panel of judges during the annual meeting. Runners-up for the award were Kalan Royal of Hardee County and Erin Jones Dasher of Suwannee County.

The Florida Farm Bureau’s annual awards recognize outstanding farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals who demonstrate leadership in improving their industries and communities.

For Quincey, the recognition represents not only personal achievement but a chance to further advocate for Florida’s farmers and promote the importance of agricultural education and stewardship.

The Florida Farm Bureau Federation, the state’s largest general agricultural organization, represents more than 133,000 member-families. Its mission focuses on enhancing farm enterprise and improving rural life through advocacy, leadership, and grassroots engagement.

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