Oklahoma Agriculture Hall of Fame
The Outstanding Achievement in Agriculture Award is the highest award given by Governor Stitt to honor distinguished Oklahoma agriculture producers. This prestigious award honors leaders in the agriculture industry who exemplify personal values, performance, and achievement. Nominees should have high standards of conduct, leadership, innovation, and accomplishments in agriculture and should be a role model for Oklahoma agriculture’s young people.
Each year the award winner is honored at Ag Day at the Capitol. The honoree will be inducted into the Agriculture Hall of Fame located at the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry.
2025 AGRICULTURE HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE: John H. Pfeiffer Jr.
John H. Pfeiffer Jr., a fourth generation Oklahoma farmer and rancher, has been named the 2025 recipient of Governor Stitt’s Outstanding Achievement in Agriculture Award and is the 28th inductee into the Oklahoma Agriculture Hall of Fame.
Known for his exceptional leadership as both president of the American Angus Association and chairman of Certified Angus Beef (CAB), Pfeiffer has worked to advance the beef industry through innovation and education, shaping the future of the Angus breed across the nation.
Through his advocacy and leadership, Pfeiffer has helped ensure Oklahoma ranchers are at the forefront of the global beef industry, maintaining the state’s strong agricultural legacy. His efforts to expand opportunities for the beef industry have played a crucial role in building consumer trust and increasing market reach.
Pfeiffer and his wife, Gaye, have long been recognized as pillars of excellence in the cattle industry. Together, they own and operate Pfeiffer Angus Farms, a purebred Angus cattle operation. Their participation in a 1981 CAB workshop shifted their focus from show-based to performance-based breeding, with Pfeiffer leading advancements in technology like in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer.
Pfeiffer graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1975 and worked as a county extension agent before serving as an educator and principal for 18 years. The Pfeiffers actively support local youth through 4-H and FFA, earning Pfeiffer honorary degrees from the Mulhall-Orlando FFA Chapter and Oklahoma FFA Association. They annually welcome hundreds to their farm, sharing livestock management practices and educating diverse groups, including chefs, international delegates and STEM educators and experts.