The Kent County Farm Bureau proudly recognized outstanding individuals and families for their contributions to agriculture during its annual banquet, held September 29 at the Felton Fire Hall. The event celebrated leadership, service, and innovation across the farming community.
Rising Star – Jordan and Casey Betts
The Kent County Rising Star Award honors individuals who exemplify leadership, service, and advocacy in agriculture. Jordan and Casey Betts of Harrington have been active members of the Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) committee, with Casey serving as Secretary and Vice President over the past four years. Their involvement spans community events such as tractor pulls, strawberry festivals, silent auctions, and raffles, all aimed at promoting agriculture and public engagement.
Casey completed the Corteva Agriscience Young Leader Program through the American Soybean Association, expanding her professional network and agricultural knowledge. Casey’s work with Willard Agri-Service and lifelong involvement in Farm Bureau activities show her dedication to the agricultural community.
Jordan brings hands-on experience from a family grain and poultry operation and remains engaged through organizations like the Big Stone Hunting Club. They work together to recruit new YF&R members and support the next generation of Delaware agriculturalists.
Gregg Knutsen spoke to the couple’s dedication to agriculture saying, “Together, they are passionate advocates, dedicated to advancing the industry, educating the public, and supporting fellow farmers.”
The Delaware General Assembly and Kent County Levy Court presented Jordan and Casey with tributes acknowledging their award.
Distinguished Service to Agriculture – Donald Bullock
Donald Bullock, a Harrington resident whose career includes education, farming, and community service, received the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award. After earning a degree in Agricultural Education from the University of Delaware, Bullock taught and advised FFA programs at several high schools, including his alma mater, Lake Forest High School, where he served for 22 years.
Bullock’s leadership began early as Delaware FFA State President in 1980. He later earned a master’s degree and National Board Certification, receiving national recognition for his contributions to agriscience education. Since 2014, he has served as Seed Operations Manager at Nutrien Ag Solutions.
His service includes 30 years on the Delaware State Fair Board and decades of farming, livestock breeding, and seed sales. Bullock’s positive impact on Delaware agriculture is evident through his mentorship, advocacy, and dedication to the farming community.
“Whether as a teacher, advisor, farmer, or friend, Donald’s impact on Delaware agriculture has been both lasting and profound,” said David Marvel Jr. when presenting the award.
Bullock received a tribute recognizing the achievement by the Delaware General Assembly and the Kent County Levy Court.
Farm Family of the Year – The David Marvel Jr. Family
The Kent County Farm Family of the Year Award was presented to the David Marvel, Jr. Family of Harrington. With deep roots in farming, the Marvel family has grown fruits, vegetables, and small grains for generations. David Marvel, Jr. balanced a career off the farm while continuing to support the family operation, ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
Marvel’s leadership extends beyond the farm. He founded Delaware’s Farm to School Program, connecting local farmers with schools and educating students about agriculture. His advocacy has reached national and international audiences, earning him the Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Award for Agriculture and the Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association Distinguished Service Award.
Shannon Morris presented a tribute to the family on behalf of the Delaware General Assembly. He shared his admiration for Marvel, “The level of knowledge of agriculture this man has at the state and federal level is astonishing.” The awardee also received a tribute from the Kent County Levy Court.
Livestock Rate of Gain Awards
Susan Truehart Garey, Kent County Director for UD Cooperative Extension, Animal Science Agent, and State 4-H Youth Development Animal Science Program Coordinator, announced the winners of the Rate of Gain contest. This contest recognizes 4-H and FFA members in Kent County who achieved the highest rate of gain with their livestock animals shown at the Delaware State Fair.
Mason Hay of Harrington earned the highest rate of gain in Sheep for FFA at 0.55 lbs/day, and in Swine at 1.55 lbs/day.
Avalee Myers of Dover-Harrington achieved the highest rate of gain in Sheep for 4-H at 0.62 lbs/day.
Aiden Garey of Harrington raised the Swine with the highest rate of gain for 4-H at 1.77 lbs/day.
Kirra Gardner of Hartly was recognized for the highest rate of gain in Goats for 4-H at 0.37 lbs/day.
For more information on Kent County Farm Bureau, visit https://defb.org/about-us/counties/kent-county-farm-bureau/.
