Meet Judi Whittaker, a fourth-generation farmer and dedicated advocate for agriculture, and the New York Farm Bureau’s 2024 Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award Winner. Her leadership and service have strengthened the agricultural community and advanced critical policy initiatives for rural farmers.
Judi co-owns Whittaker Farms, a 104-year-old dairy and row crop operation in Witney Point, New York, with her husband, Scott. Together, they raise 600 dairy cows and 2000 acres of crops.
In addition to managing her operation, she is a pioneer in farm safety legislation and ag advocacy, helping pass Senate Bill 4085A to equip NY air ambulances with life-saving blood products, and served as co-chair of the Agricultural Advisory Committee alongside NY State Rep. Marc Molinaro to address farmer challenges in the state. Also an active participant in her local agriculture community, Judi serves as an at-large member of the NYS Dairy Promotion Order Advisory Board and received the O. Cleon Barber Award in 2021 for supporting Broome County agriculture through CCE Broome’s programs.
Her deep-rooted passion for farming and advocacy efforts have impacted New York agriculture for many years. Judi was chosen for the New York Farm Bureau’s esteemed award due to her commitment, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the farming community.
