Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson has announced Reba Y. Mazak as the 2025 Woman of the Year in Agriculture, recognizing her lifelong dedication and significant contributions to Florida’s agricultural community.
“Reba Y. Mazak embodies the resilience, dedication, and innovation that define Florida agriculture,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “Her lifelong commitment to ranching, advocacy, and mentorship has strengthened our agricultural community and ensured a bright future for the next generation. It is an honor to recognize her as the 2025 Woman of the Year in Agriculture.”
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Mazak, a fifth-generation Florida cattle rancher based in Sumter County, has deep roots in the state’s agricultural landscape. She and her late husband, Paul, built Mazak Ranch into a successful cattle operation with holdings in both Florida and Texas. In addition to ranching, Mazak also owns a limerock mine, a wedding venue, and a hunting operation.
A staunch advocate for the beef industry, Mazak has been actively involved with Florida CattleWomen for over 40 years, serving as its President in 2004. She also led the American National CattleWomen (ANCW), serving as its President in 2022 during its 70th anniversary. Mazak is also a graduate of the Masters of Beef Advocacy Program and is certified in Beef Quality Assurance.
Beyond her ranching and advocacy work, Mazak is passionate about mentoring young people in agriculture and remains active in Farm Bureau leadership. In her personal time, she enjoys ranching, hunting, and spending time with her daughters and grandsons.
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The Woman of the Year in Agriculture award, sponsored by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) in conjunction with the Florida State Fair Authority, has honored women who have made outstanding contributions to Florida agriculture since 1985. Recipients have come from diverse sectors of the industry, including cattle, vegetables, timber, citrus, row crops, equine, horticulture, tropical fruits, sugarcane, dairy, agricultural journalism, and agricultural education and outreach.
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