KATE “PINK HAT FARMER” HUFFMAN NAMED 2025 YOUNG LEADER EXCELLENCE IN AGRICULTURE AWARD WINNER
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – A stalwart advocate of farmer mental health and celebrating women in agriculture, Kate Huffman was recently named winner of the prestigious 2025 Excellence in Agriculture award.
The Excellence in Agriculture award recognizes Illinois Farm Bureau Young Leaders who are actively contributing and growing their involvement in IFB and the agriculture industry.
“We’re thrilled to recognize Kate Huffman for her outstanding contributions to Illinois agriculture,” said Perry Harlow, IFB Young Leader program coordinator. “Huffman exemplifies the dedication and passion we see in our young agriculture leaders.”
Huffman is a sixth-generation farmer in rural Galva. She started her journey renting farmland in 2016 and bought her first farm in 2018 at the age of 27. In addition to farming, Huffman works full-time as a farm loan officer.
Since she started her career, Huffman found a passion in promoting women in agriculture and their small businesses, family communication and farmer mental health and farm safety. She started a business, “Pink Hat Farmer,” to promote women in agriculture and encourage other female farmers to dream big. Pink Hat Farmer became a moniker for Huffman, who shared her story with an international audience. She also promotes agriculture through Harvest Hosts, where RV travelers can stay on her farm. She has hosted more than 100 visitors from as far as Bermuda and Canada.
Huffman, who is also chair of Henry County Farm Bureau Health and Safety Committee, has also spearheaded events such as Mocktails and Mental Health and trainings for people who work with farmers to spot the signs of mental health crises. She is involved in numerous agriculture organizations and programs with Illinois Farm Bureau and beyond.
About Illinois Farm Bureau:
Founded in 1916, Illinois Farm Bureau – originally known as the Illinois Agricultural Association – is a nonprofit, grassroots membership organization. Illinois Farm Bureau and a statewide network of county Farm Bureaus give members an advantage through impactful advocacy, trusted information and meaningful development to support their careers and Illinois farm families.
Learn more about Illinois agriculture at www.ilfb.org. Connect with Illinois Farm Bureau on Facebook: Illinois Farm Bureau | Facebook, Instagram @ilfarmbureau, X @ILFarmBureau, or on TikTok @illinoisfarmbureau.
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