By Andi Anderson
The 2024 Farm Science Review Hall of Fame has inducted three distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to agriculture and the Farm Science Review event. Roger Bender, Susan Crowell, and Richard Unverferth were honored at the annual recognition banquet on July 10 for their dedication and service.
Roger Bender, from Fort Loramie, has been a long-time supporter of the Farm Science Review. With degrees in agricultural education, he began his career as a vocational agriculture teacher before serving as an Agricultural Extension Agent in Shelby County for 32 years.
Roger’s involvement with the Farm Science Review dates back to his high school years, and he has continued to support the event in various capacities, including assisting with the Certified Crop Advisor program. His dedication to agriculture and environmental stewardship has made him a valuable contributor to the event’s success.
Susan Crowell, hailing from Lisbon, has had a remarkable career in agricultural journalism. Raised on a dairy farm, Susan pursued a journalism degree and eventually found her calling at Farm and Dairy, where she worked for 34 years.
As editor, she played a pivotal role in covering agricultural topics and events, including the Farm Science Review, where she managed the Farm and Dairy booth and conducted interviews with key figures in the industry. Susan’s commitment to agricultural journalism and her involvement in the Farm Science Review have left a lasting impact on the farming community.
Richard Unverferth, honored posthumously, was a pioneer in agricultural innovation. After serving in the Navy, Richard returned to his family farm in Kalida, where he and his father founded Unverferth Manufacturing Company.
The company’s first major innovation was dual wheels for tractors, which became a standard feature in modern agriculture. Richard’s strategic approach to marketing and dedication to showcasing products at events like the Farm Science Review helped establish Unverferth Manufacturing as a prominent name in the industry. His legacy continues through the family-owned company, now led by his sons.
These inductees join an esteemed group of individuals in the Farm Science Review Hall of Fame, recognized for their exceptional contributions to agriculture and their communities.
Tickets for the 2024 Farm Science Review, scheduled for September 17-19, are available for purchase online and at participating locations for $10, with gate prices set at $15. Children ages 5 and under can attend for free.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Ohio, General