By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Agri-Women have announced the winners of the inaugural Legacy Farm Family Awards under the Generations of Women in Agriculture Across America (GoAg3) initiative.
The program recognizes women whose dedication, leadership, and support have helped strengthen agriculture across multiple generations.
The first-place award was presented to the Schultz/Miller Farm Family from northwest Illinois, southern Wisconsin, and central Iowa. Four generations of women have been involved in production agriculture, with fourteen women representing the three living generations.
Their work spans dairy farming and livestock production, including cattle, sheep, horses, and pigs. The family has also contributed to agriculture through careers in extension services, animal nutrition, genetics, banking, education, agritourism, photography, transportation, and forage harvesting. They remain active in churches, schools, 4-H, FFA, Farmers Union, Farm Bureau, and Annie’s Project.
“It is truly amazing to see the array of leadership accomplishments and the involvement in agricultural activities by the Schultz/Miller women,” said David Fischer, University of Illinois, retired Extension Dairy Educator, in his letter of recommendation for the Schultz/Miller Family.
The second-place award went to the Green Farm Family of Arthur, Illinois. Four generations of women have played important roles in the family’s agricultural success. The legacy began with Dorothy, whose commitment to her family and farm helped create a strong foundation for future generations.
Today, the family continues to operate Heritage Family Farms while developing innovative and entrepreneurial business opportunities. Family members have actively participated in community organizations, education boards, church activities, 4-H, FFA, and Farm Bureau programs.
“What makes these three women especially deserving of recognition is not only their professional excellence, but their deep commitment to service…agriculture thrives when communities thrive,” said Gregory Peterson, Farm Credit Illinois, retired Vice President Ag Financial Services.
The third-place award was awarded to the O’Bryan Farm Family of Oregon. Their agricultural journey spans five generations, beginning with Elsie’s work as a sharecropper’s wife and continuing through generations involved in livestock, market gardening, and goat production. The family remains active in 4-H, FFA, local schools, and goat industry organizations.
The GoAg3 initiative was launched in 2025 to celebrate women who have encouraged family members to pursue important roles in agriculture.
The winning families will be honored at the GoAg3 Celebration on August 21, 2026, in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, where attendees will participate in educational and professional development activities while recognizing these outstanding agricultural families.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle