Gladys Freeman

Freeman formed the first chartered 4-H club in Okeechobee County in 1968.  She was instrumental in creating a livestock show and sale so members would have a means to exhibit their projects and be rewarded. She has set up and provided the animals for livestock judging practices. Through her program, she has helped members develop reasoning and speaking skills, as well as selection skills.    

“My interest and involvement in 4-H has influenced me to continue learning and improving in order to be a better mentor to the members, help them with advice about their projects, and encourage them to develop their potentials to the fullest, while becoming good, responsible citizens,” says Freeman.

She served on the Florida State Fair Beef Breeding, Steer Show and Scholarship committees for several years.  She also served as Secretary and Treasurer of the Okeechobee Livestock Show.  Freeman is a co-owner and operator of livestock auction markets in Okeechobee and Sebring.   

Freeman has received numerous awards for her work including: Service and Leadership Awards from the Florida Limousin Breeders Association, the Florida Cattlemen Association Premier Bull Awards (1976-1977, 1979-1980), nominated for Florida Woman of the Year in Agriculture.

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