WOMEN OF STRENGTH™️: Stewards of the Land

In honor of Women’s History Month, FREIDA ROTHMAN honors the remarkable contributions of multigenerational female farmers, “Stewards of the Land”, with the indomitable legacy they cultivate across time. Their commitment, not only sustains our agricultural heritage, but also exemplifies the enduring spirit, passed down through generations, shaping resilient communities, and fostering, a legacy of strength, wisdom, and sustenance.

Inspired by Freida Rothman’s legacy as a second-generation jeweler, a devoted mother, and a pioneering woman CEO, the WOMEN OF STRENGTHTM: Stewards of the Land campaign celebrates the power of planting seeds, both physically and metaphorically, in shaping a brighter future.

Discover the Campaign

Christi Bland-Miller

4th Generation Rice Farmer

Sledge, MS

Christi Bland-Miller is a WOMAN OF STRENGTH™️ and a fourth-generation rice and soybean farmer, deeply committed to preserving and enhancing her family's farming legacy. Although she initially embarked on a different journey, the allure of tradition and the imperative of innovation inexorably drew her back to the farm. As a board member of the National Black Growers Council, she proactively supports the rights and access to essential resources for minority farmers. Despite confronting challenges such as volatile market prices and disruptions caused by the pandemic, her resilience, along with that of her community, remains unwavering. Guided by the wisdom of her father, Christi and her team at Bland Farms incorporate modern agricultural techniques while honoring their treasured values. At Bland Farms, they are more than just farmers; they are custodians of a rich legacy, collectively authoring the next chapter in their family's history.

DISCOVER HER STORY WATCH HER INTERVIEW

Traci Middleton

Founder of Mill Creek Land & Cattle

Puryear, TN

Traci Middleton is a WOMAN OF STRENGTH™️ who runs Mill Creek Land & Cattle, a Brangus cattle operation that originated from a 4-H project in 1993. She is dedicated to breeding quality Brangus cattle, employing advanced techniques to achieve excellence in both local and national arenas. Alongside her husband, Traci balances farm life with roles at Middleton Lumber Company, her family’s 4th generation hardwood lumber business, and instills values of hard work in their daughter. Her active involvement in the agriculture community plays a significant role in shaping the Brangus breeding and agriculture industry. At Mill Creek Land & Cattle, strength is a hallmark not just of their herd, but also of their family, their community, and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

DISCOVER HER STORY WATCH HER INTERVIEW

Hallie Shoffner

CEO of SFR Seed
Founder of Foodwise

Newport, AR

Hallie Shoffner, a WOMAN OF STRENGTH™️, runs her family farm in the Arkansas-Mississippi Delta, where tradition and innovation converge over 2,000 acres dedicated to soybeans and rice. With a background in literature and a master's in public service, she has infused new perspectives into their generational legacy. The farm combats climate change through sustainable practices like conservation tillage, water management, and precision agriculture, all aimed at preserving their land for future generations. As a steward of the earth, her mission goes beyond farming to advocate for policies that support sustainable agriculture and strengthen the resilience of the planet's food systems.

DISCOVER HER STORY WATCH HER INTERVIEW