HERSHEY – Pennsylvania Farm Bureau presented its Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award to Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding on Monday, Nov. 18, during its 74th Annual Meeting in Hershey. The prestigious honor recognizes an individual whose dedicated work and service has significantly advanced agriculture across the Commonwealth.
Redding, a native of Adams County, humbly reflected on his agricultural journey, gratitude for the recognition.
“To have your vocation and avocation be the same is a gift,” Redding said. “As a young FFA member of the Battlefield Chapter in Gettysburg, when I stood up and said the FFA creed, I believed in the future of agriculture—not just in words, but in deeds. Those deeds have defined my journey.”
Born and raised on a dairy farm, Redding’s passion for agriculture was ignited early. He pursued his education at Penn State University, earning degrees in Agricultural Education and Agricultural Economics, before embarking on a distinguished career that spans agribusiness, agricultural policy, and public service.
His journey includes various roles with U.S. Senator Harris Wofford and Governors Tom Ridge, Tom Wolf, and Josh Shapiro. Between his governmental roles, Redding served as Dean of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at Delaware Valley University, further exemplifying his dedication to nurturing future agricultural leaders.
Throughout his career, Redding has remained steadfast in his commitment to addressing the evolving challenges Pennsylvania agriculture faces. From rising land prices and regulatory issues, to meeting consumer expectations, he has championed solutions to ensure a bright future for farmers and communities across the state.
Some of Redding’s greatest achievements include the creation of the Pennsylvania Farm Bill and his efforts to help producers incorporate environmental stewardship and best management practices on farms. Redding has been instrumental in creating mental health support services, including the AgriStress HelpLine for Pennsylvania farmers. He has also worked diligently to expand the farmland preservation efforts across the state.
Reflecting on his years of service, Redding emphasized the resilience and innovation of Pennsylvania’s agricultural community.
“Every generation has confronted the big questions of how to sustain and grow agriculture,” Redding said. “I am inspired every time I meet first-generation farmers, 10th-generation farmers, and others who are committed to contributing to our food system. Their dedication gives me confidence in a brighter future.”
Redding credited his wife, Nina, for her unwavering support throughout his career.
“She has been my partner in every step of this journey, from dairy farming to policy work,” Redding said. “This recognition is shared with her.”
Pennsylvania Farm Bureau thanks Secretary Redding for his exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to agriculture in Pennsylvania. His work has left an indelible mark on the industry and continues to inspire others to believe in its future.
About the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award
The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau’s Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award honors individuals who have significantly contributed to the advancement of agriculture in Pennsylvania through their leadership, advocacy, and lifelong dedication to the industry.