The Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) hosted its Annual Banquet as part of the DEFB Convention, recognizing outstanding contributions to Delaware agriculture and celebrating the accomplishments of its members.
The evening opened with greetings from state and national leaders, including Delaware Governor Matt Meyer, who commended DEFB’s commitment to protecting and preserving Delaware agriculture. American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) leaders also joined in recognizing DEFB’s impact, alongside Nationwide, DEFB’s Heritage Partner. In addition, Senator Kyra Hoffner presented DEFB President Bill Powers with a ceremonial copy of SB190, requires state agencies and political subdivisions to notify DEFB when state-owned or local agricultural land becomes available for lease, aiming to help farmers access farmland, signed into law on August 12, 2025.
Statewide Awards
Rising Star
Robbie and Emily Emerson of New Castle County were the recipients of the 2025 Rising Star award. Robbie has served Farm Bureau as a delegate and mentor to young farmers, and is active with the Delaware Soybean Board, Atlantic Soybean Council, United Soybean Board, and Southern States Board of Directors. On his family farm, he encourages innovation and sustainability while supporting FFA, 4‑H, and college students. Emily teaches agricultural education and advises FFA at William Penn High School, leading the Animal Systems pathway. Raised in the dairy industry, she advocates for its future and serves on the Delaware Association of Agriscience Teachers. Together, the Emersons raise dairy heifers, beef cattle, and crops.
“Dedicated grain and dairy farmers, this couple’s passion for agriculture and commitment to their community have made them respected leaders in Delaware’s farming industry,” said DEFB President Bill Powers.
Distinguished Service to Agriculture
The late Richard Wilkins was honored with the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award for his lifelong dedication and passion for farming. He operated B&W Ag Enterprises, farmed in Kent and Sussex Counties, and maintained a 120‑head cow‑calf beef herd. In 2025, he was appointed State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency in Delaware, and he previously held national leadership roles with the American Soybean Association and served as Kent County and State Farm Bureau President (2018–2022).
Past Delaware Secretary of Agriculture Michael Scuse, who served as emcee, noted, “his life’s work reflected his dedication to farming, his community, and his tireless advocacy for policies that strengthened agriculture in Delaware and beyond.”
Farm Family of the Year
The Farm Family of the Year Award was presented to the David Marvel, Jr. Family of Kent County. The Marvel family has deep roots in growing fruits, vegetables, and small grains. David balanced an off‑farm career while helping sustain the family operation for the future, and his leadership helped found Delaware’s Farm to School Program—connecting local farmers with schools and educating students about agriculture. His advocacy has reached national and international audiences and earned the Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Award for Agriculture and the Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association Distinguished Service Award.
“Their advocacy has reached far beyond Delaware, hosting international delegations and sharing expertise on food security with congressional leaders,” said Scuse.
Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Recognition & Awards
DEFB YF&R Chair Connor Vincent shared her committees accomplishment throughout the year including the Strawberry Festival and Tractor pull raising funds for scholarships and young farmer support. The committee recognized an outstanding member and supporters for their contributions.
YF&R Member of the Year
Sydney Thompson was recognized as the YF&R Member of the Year for embracing every task with enthusiasm, volunteering at events, stepping up whenever needed, and taking on leadership responsibilities, demonstrating dedication to both agriculture and YF&R.
YF&R Supporter of the Year
Jim Minner’s unwavering support of YF&R over many years and pivotal role in ensuring the Tractor Pull at the Delaware State Fair was a tremendous success in 2025 earned him this year’s YF&R supporter of the Year award.
YF&R Lifetime Supporter Award
Introduced this year as YF&R’s most prestigious recognition, the Lifetime Supporter Award honors individuals and families whose sustained contributions have shaped the committee and its programs. Robert Garey Sr. was celebrated for his longstanding support of the annual Tractor Pull as announcer and his multigenerational impact on YF&R and Delaware agriculture.
Discussion Meet & Collegiate Division
DEFB brought back its YF&R Discussion Meet competition and, for the first time, introduced a Collegiate Division, providing leadership and professional development experiences where participants engage in committee‑style conversations to address real‑world agricultural issues.
The Collegiate Division Winner, Emerson Hickey, will represent Delaware at the national contest in March at the YF&R Leadership Conference in Portland, Oregon.
The YF&R Discussion Meet Winner, Maci Carter, will represent Delaware at the national competition in January at the AFBF Annual Convention in Anaheim, California.
Delaware Farm Bureau Ambassador
DEFB was also proud to reinstate the Ambassador Program. The 2026 Ambassador will receive a $5,000 scholarship and gain valuable opportunities to participate in industry tours and events throughout the year, building connections and hands-on experience in Delaware agriculture. During the banquet, finalists delivered speeches on their passion for agriculture and why they want to serve to all attendees, and Emerson Hickey was announced as the 2026 DEFB Ambassador.
