Women in Agriculture Awards honor innovation leadership and impact
Women across the agricultural sector were recognized for their contributions to farming, research, leadership, innovation, and community development during the 2026 Women in Agriculture Awards in New York. The annual awards program celebrates women who are helping shape the future of agriculture through their dedication and achievements.
“The Women in Agriculture Awards is a great opportunity to celebrate the incredible women who continue to make our industry better. From leading agricultural research teams to developing programs that support food systems, these innovators are strengthening our shared agricultural community and bringing it to new heights. The Department is thrilled to recognize this group of individuals who continue to shape the future of New York agriculture,” said Commissioner Ball.
“The New York State Fair is the perfect place to shine a light on the incredible contributions these women bring to our industry. I’m excited to celebrate them and the impact they have made across agriculture,” said Fair Director Julie LaFave.
Now in its third year, the program highlights outstanding women from different areas of the industry. The 2026 celebration is especially significant because the United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, recognizing the important role women play in global food production and agricultural progress.
Award recipients represented a wide range of agricultural fields. Honors were presented for lifetime achievement, emerging leadership, urban farming, horticulture, animal care, dairy production, agricultural innovation, business leadership, and community service. The winners demonstrated excellence through their work in research, education, farm management, sustainability, and mentorship.
The selected recipients are:
Golden Hoof Award: Dr. Carie Telgen, ruminant technical specialist with Diamond V, Fort Ann, New York.
Empower Through Ag Award: Adrienne Bitar and Jennifer Han, co-founders and co-CEOs of Seen Nutrition, Ithaca, New York.
Friend of the Fair Award: Kathleen Burns, program coordinator with CCE Onondaga County, Cazenovia, New York.
Innovator in Ag Award: Jenn Smith, Sarah Meyer, and Amanda Reilly Pitman of the Grow NY Food and Agriculture Innovation Team, Ithaca, New York.
Leaving it Better Award: Kim Wagner, founder and owner of Stoutridge Winery and Distillery, Marlboro, New York.
Organizers noted that the awards received strong interest, with dozens of nominations submitted. The selected recipients were recognized for making meaningful contributions to agriculture while supporting the growth and success of their local communities and the broader industry.
The award ceremony will take place during the Women’s Day Breakfast at the Great New York State Fair in September. The event will provide an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of women who continue to drive positive change across agriculture.
Women play a major role in New York’s agricultural sector. According to agricultural census data, thousands of women are involved in farming and food production throughout the state. Many farms are owned and operated by women, reflecting their growing influence in modern agriculture.
The International Year of the Woman Farmer aims to raise awareness about the contributions and challenges of women in agriculture worldwide. It also supports efforts related to gender equality, food security, and rural development.
The Great New York State Fair, one of the oldest and most recognized state fairs in the United States, will serve as the venue for this celebration. The event highlights agriculture, entertainment, education, and community engagement while showcasing the achievements of agricultural leaders from across the region.
Photo: Julia Fouts of Fouts Family Farm, Cortland, New York.