Through the invention of his patented bulk fertilizer hauler in 1952, Sam Killebrew helped to revolutionize agriculture. The hauler provided an easier, more efficient and cost-effective way to deliver nutrients to many crops – most notably citrus, Florida’s signature crop. The machinery – known as “The Killebrew” – eliminated the manual handling of fertilizer, including...

As president of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association for 26 years, Mike Stuart has been a highly respected leader, ambassador and spokesperson for Florida specialty crop agriculture. His leadership and dedicated service have benefited the grower-shipper community statewide, regionally and nationally. Throughout his career, he has been a sought-out source of knowledge and expertise...

Dr. W. Bernard Lester was born in Havana, Florida, and grew up on a “shadeback farm” that produced the tobacco plants that provided the outer wrappers for cigars. Lester was involved in Havana High School’s Future Farmers of America, earned an Eagle Scout designation and received the Service Award from the American Legion. Following his...

Ben Hill Griffin III is one of the giants of the Florida citrus industry. The son of legendary Florida land baron, citrus grower, and state legislator Ben Hill Griffin Jr., he has expanded his father’s empire, diversifying the family agribusinesses and continuing his father’s well-known tradition of philanthropy.  As the head of Ben Hill Griffin,...

Dr. James Griffiths had a long and varied career in the Florida citrus industry. He was a researcher, grower, industry representative, and strong supporter of agricultural causes. For 60 years he could be found at almost every citrus meeting in the state, advocating for his fellow growers. He was never afraid to question the decisions...

Third-generation citrus grower Mason Smoak accomplished an unbelievable amount in his short 33 years. He managed sprawling cattle ranches and citrus groves and lent his leadership skills to a long list of industry trade associations. He was involved in everything from agriculture education to conservation, and he embraced each new project with energy, optimism, and...

Hugh English spent 35 years working for A. Duda and Sons, Inc., one of Florida’s agricultural giants.  He started with the company as a citrus grove manager and retired as a corporate vice president.  Through his work at Duda in the 1960s, English helped launch southwest Florida’s fledgling citrus industry.  He conducted pioneering research and...