CEO and President
Duval County Fair Association
Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair
Mission
The mission statement of the Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair is to annually celebrate our heritage, culture and community by providing wholesome family fun, friendly competition and educational experiences.
The Greater Jacksonville Fair Association is a private, 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation, chartered by the Florida Department of Agriculture to educate, entertain and inform citizens about agriculture, horticulture, science and the arts. The fair is dedicated to maintaining a high-quality family fair, annually showcasing the very best our community has to offer.
Serving Jacksonville
Began in June 1955; prior to World II, the State Fair was located in Jacksonville.
Those served
Duval, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Nassau and St. Johns counties. Attendance was 373,462 in 2008; 437,460 in 2009; and 392,673 in 2010.
According to Vision Research Group, the fair has an annual economic impact exceeding $8.8 million.
Biggest challenge
The continuous challenge of raising money for scholarships and sponsorships. To date, the Jacksonville Fair Association has given back to the community more than $2.5 million in scholarships and to charitable organizations.
Biggest satisfaction
Observing children as they enjoy the fair, especially in the barn. When a child has the chance to see a biddy hatched or a new calf, their expressions are priceless. I also enjoy watching excited high school students receive one of the many college scholarships awarded by the Fair Association.
Hometown
I’m a Navy brat born in Pensacola, but I spent time in many locations. The majority of my life has been in Jacksonville.
Your job with the fair
I started with the fair in 1978 as a part-time worker and continued to work through the ranks. I became CEO and president Jan. 1, 2005.
Upcoming events
Nov. 2-13: The Greater Jacksonville Fair.
We continually rent our facilities to other events.
Contact information
www.jacksonvillefair.com