LONDON, Ohio – Farm Science Review (FSR) inducted three individuals who have supported the show in numerous capacities into its Hall of Fame on July 10 at its annual recognition banquet. Roger Bender, Susan Crowell and Richard Unverferth were recognized as the 2024 honorees.

“It’s a special event each year to honor those who have gone above and beyond for the Farm Science Review, and it’s always remarkable to learn more about other professional and personal accomplishments aside from their show involvement during the selection process,” said Nick Zachrich, FSR manager. “Roger, Susan and Richard are more than deserving of this honor and join an esteemed group of individuals in the Farm Science Review Hall of Farm.”

Bender, of Fort Loramie, Ohio, will long be remembered for his service as agricultural Extension agent in Shelby County, a position he held for 32 years before retiring in 2011. Bender graduated with degrees in agricultural education in 1974 and 1978. He began his career teaching vocational agriculture at Coldwater High School for five years before taking the Extension position in Sidney.

As an agricultural Extension agent, Bender was deeply involved in supporting local farmers and agricultural businesses. He provided environmental consulting services, particularly for livestock and crop producers, and worked as a certified crop adviser.

Bender became involved with FSR when he was in high school. At that time the event was at its original location, Don Scott Field. Over the years, Bender contributed in various capacities, including supporting the Certified Crop Adviser program and assisting with logistical challenges, such as the golf car program.

He and his wife, Bobby (Kathleen) have two daughters and five grandchildren. The Benders farm a small farm, growing corn, soybeans, wheat and hay. His compassion for farming and environmental stewardship continues to drive his work even after retirement.

Susan Crowell, of Lisbon, Ohio, was raised on a dairy farm in Holmes County in Ohio. Despite her agricultural upbringing, she pursued a degree in journalism from Kent State University, initially not intending to work in the agricultural sector.

Crowell began working at Farm and Dairy in 1985 and remained with that publication until her retirement in 2019. She started as a reporter and was promoted to editor in 1989. During her tenure, Crowell made significant contributions to the publication and agricultural journalism, covering a wide range of topics and events relevant to the farming community.

Crowell’s involvement with Farm Science Review began in 1985, the same year she joined Farm and Dairy. At FSR she managed her publication’s booth and covered various events and notable figures, including interviews with governors and university presidents, like Gordon Gee, of Ohio State University.

Crowell and her husband, Keith, have two adult children, Annette White and Jon Crowell. In her spare time Crowell is a high school varsity volleyball official.

Richard Unverferth (posthumous) of Kalida, Ohio, was raised on his family farm located just south of the current manufacturing facility of Unverferth Manufacturing Co. After serving in the Navy, Richard returned home in 1948 and, alongside his father, began a business designing and manufacturing agricultural equipment. They initially focused on creating control levers to enhance the functionality of combines for local farmers.

Richard and his father’s first major innovation was the development of dual wheels, which have become a standard feature on modern tractors. This breakthrough marked the beginning of Unverferth Manufacturing Co.’s journey in the agricultural equipment industry. Richard played a pivotal role in the business, handling sales and marketing to expand the company’s reach and ensure their products met the needs of farmers.

Unverferth Manufacturing’s involvement with Farm Science Review began in 1966 when the event was at Don Scott Field. The company’s first exhibition featured their dual wheels, and despite a rain-out that year, it marked the start of a long-standing tradition. Since then, Unverferth Manufacturing has been a consistent exhibitor at FSR.

Over the years, the company’s exhibit grew in size and scope, which was indicative of its expanding product line and the significance of the Ohio market to their business. The company remains family-owned, now run by three of Richard’s sons: Larry (president), Steve (chairman) and Dave (operations manager).