Florida Department of Agriculture Honors Dr. LuJean Waters as 2026 Woman of the Year in Agriculture
Dr. LuJean Waters, a veterinarian and owner of Heartland Large Animal Services in Bartow, Florida, has been named the 2026 Woman of the Year in Agriculture by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Dr. Waters, a seventh-generation Florida cattle rancher, has been recognized for her extensive contributions to the agricultural community. She has held leadership roles such as chair of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association Animal Health Committee and has been a member of the Florida Beef Council and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Board. In addition to her professional achievements, Dr. Waters is actively involved in mentoring students and supporting youth agriculture programs. The award, which has been presented since 1985, is sponsored by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services in conjunction with the Florida State Fair Authority.