The 1991 Winner: Ruth M. Tucker
Ruth M. Tucker was "Woman of the Year in Agriculture" for 1991. She was the seventh recipient of the award, which recognizes women who have made outstanding contributions to Florida agriculture. Tucker is model example of an individual who has dedicated countless hours of service to Florida agriculture and played a vital role in sustaining and developing this industry.
Tucker, who was born and raised in Polk County, has made a lifelong commitment to agriculture. As a child, she worked on her family’s citrus and vegetable farm. Tucker has been involved in the beef cattle industry most of her adult life. Since the 1950s, she also has been involved in nearly every aspect of her family’s purebred Brahman and commercial cow-calf operation.
In addition, Tucker has held several leadership positions in agriculture. As president of the Florida Cattle Women’s Association from 1974 to 1976, she spearheaded the first beef promotion conducted in the Sunshine State.
Tucker and other cattle women embarked on a statewide campaign to promote young Florida- grown beef. They went to supermarkets, where they would present beef facts and cook samples of beef. Tucker also developed the cattle women’s "Beef Short Courses," which are held annually at the University of Florida. Cattle women throughout the state attend these sessions.
Tucker, a former teacher, devoted much of her time to educating high school economics students and consumers about nutrition. One of her top priorities was for Florida Cattle Women to travel to schools and civic clubs and disseminate nutritional information.
Tucker also has served as president of the Brevard County Cattle Women, member of the Florida Beef Council, member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the American Brahman Breeders Association, member of the Farm Bureau, member of the Brevard County Extension Advisory Council, and member of the Brevard County Agricultural Center building committee.
