New York State Fair to Honor Women in Agriculture

By Blake Jackson

In celebration of Women's History Month, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball has announced the opening of nominations for the 2025 Women in Agriculture Awards.

These awards, presented at the Great New York State Fair on Women’s Day, aim to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions of women to New York's agricultural sector.

Building on the success of last year's event, the awards will highlight female leaders across ten distinct categories, reflecting the diverse excellence within the state's agriculture industry.

“From spearheading production of their own businesses to creating critical policy change, women have long led the way in all corners of the agricultural industry. Here at the Department, we support and recognize the women trailblazers in agriculture here in New York and are honored to celebrate their work and contributions to agriculture with our annual Women in Agriculture Awards," said Commissioner Ball.

"I’m excited to see this tradition continue in 2025 and thank The New York State Fair for helping us highlight the incredible talent in the industry. I encourage anyone who knows a strong woman in agriculture to consider nominating them for an award.”

“Our Fair is deeply rooted in agriculture, and the Women in Agriculture awards are a fantastic celebration of the women who keep this incredible industry running," said Fair Director Julie LaFave. "I’m excited to see this tradition continue to grow in its second year and look forward to celebrating this year’s winners in August.”

The awards will honor women in categories ranging from "Industry Legend" for those with over 20 years of experience, to "Rising Star" for those in the early stages of their careers. 

Other categories include "Innovator in Ag," "Urban Farmer," "Golden Hoof" for animal care, "Rooted Success" for plant cultivation, "Dairy Dynamo," "Empower Through Ag" for minority and women-owned businesses, "Friend of The Fair," and the Commissioner's "Leaving it Better" award.

Nominations are open until May 9, 2025, and will be reviewed by a committee of State Fair and Agriculture and Markets employees.

Winners will be announced in June and honored at the Women's Day Breakfast on August 27, 2025, during the New York State Fair.

Photo Credit: ny-state-fair