Waldo cattle rancher named finalist for statewide competition

Press release from Florida Farm Bureau

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Four young agricultural professionals are advancing to the statewide Discussion Meet competition at Florida Farm Bureau’s State Annual Meeting, October 27-29 in Daytona Beach. Aaron Bruce of Myakka City, Caroline Chappell of Graceville, John Jones of Trenton, and Sarah Luther of Waldo are this year’s competitors.

Contestants are evaluated on their exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic, as well as their ability to analyze agricultural challenges and develop solutions. The event is meant to simulate a Farm Bureau committee meeting, with judges looking for constructive criticism, cooperation, and active communication.

Meet the competitors:

• Aaron Bruce resides with his wife Emily in Myakka City, where they have recently established their own herd of cattle. Bruce works in precision agriculture with Everglades Equipment Group. He earned dual master’s degrees in sustainable agriculture and crop & soil science from the University of Georgia and the University of Padova in Italy. Bruce says his motivation to compete was fueled by the need for advocacy on behalf of farmers, ranchers, and Florida conservation.
• Caroline Chappell is a proud wife, mother, and agricultural advocate from Graceville. She and her husband, Logan, run Uncle Henry Farms, a multi-generational cattle ranch known for its Angus bulls. Chappell is devoted to preserving and advancing the future of farming. Caroline and Logan have two young sons, Emmett and Rhett.
• Trenton’s John Jones blends his agricultural upbringing with his professional experience as a holistic financial planner. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting, has an array of professional designations, and is frequently featured in top financial media outlets such as CBS Moneywatch CNN, and Forbes. Jones actively participates in his family’s cattle ranch and peanut harvesting operation.
• Sarah Luther resides in Waldo and is a cattle rancher, attorney, and advocate for sustainable agriculture. Luther serves as corporate counsel for a national ag-tech firm while running a Wagyu-Angus cattle ranch alongside her husband. Their ranch is also an agritourism site, hosting events that connect families with farming. She works diligently to support young farmers, expand local food systems, and bridge the gap between farmers and ranchers and policymakers.

The 2025 Discussion Meet winner will receive a utility vehicle courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Company, a $500 cash award, and an expense-paid trip to the 2026 American Farm Bureau Annual Convention in Anaheim, CA, where they will represent Florida in the national YF&R competition.