The Woman of the Year in Agriculture was announced in Florida.
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced Dr. LuJean Waters as the 2026 Woman of the Year in Agriculture.
Dr. LuJean Waters is a seventh-generation Florida cattle rancher, veterinarian, and owner of Heartland Large Animal Services, a large animal ambulatory veterinary practice serving livestock producers across Central Florida. She also teaches numerous animal science and beef cattle production classes at Warner University in Lake Wales, Florida.
“Dr. LuJean Waters has dedicated her life to serving Florida agriculture and the people who keep it strong,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “She understands the responsibility that comes with feeding our state and protecting our agricultural heritage, and she is helping to ensure the next generation is ready to carry that forward. It is an honor to recognize her as the 2026 Woman of the Year in Agriculture.”
Dr. Waters has held numerous leadership roles within the industry, including serving as Chair of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association Animal Health Committee, as a member of the Florida Beef Council, and on the National Cattlemen’s Beef Board.
She previously made history as the first female president of the Polk County Cattlemen’s Association and remains active in supporting producers and advancing animal health across the state.
In addition to her professional work, Dr. LuJean Waters is deeply committed to mentoring students, encouraging youth with disabilities, and supporting youth agriculture programs. She regularly volunteers her time to provide veterinary services, educational clinics, and hands-on learning opportunities for young people involved in livestock exhibitions and agricultural education.
Since 1985, women who have made outstanding contributions to Florida agriculture have been honored with the Woman of the Year in Agriculture award. This award, sponsored by FDACS in conjunction with the Florida State Fair Authority, is presented to the recipient during the Florida State Fair in Tampa.
Recipients of the Woman of the Year in Agriculture award have come from all parts of the industry, including cattle, vegetables, timber, citrus, row crops, equine, horticulture, aquaculture, tropical fruits, sugar cane, dairy, agricultural journalism, and agricultural education and outreach.
