4 local women represented Lexington County at a leadership conference recently.

Barbara Leaphart, Catherine Porth, Frances Price and Evelyn Shumpert joined more than 100 women from across the state for the South Carolina Farm Bureau Federation’s annual Women’s Leadership Conference in North Charleston Oct. 14-15.

The women participated in workshops that showcased local agriculture, offered personal development and provided tools to promote agriculture in their counties.

“We are fortunate to have such dedicated women in Farm Bureau,” SCFB President Harry Ott said. “Without their enthusiasm and commitment, SCFB would not have the far-reaching influence it has. So far this year, these women have put in more than 7,000 hours of purpose activities around the state. We are extremely proud of their accomplishments.”

Farm Bureau Women at county, state and national levels coordinate agricultural education and promotional activities, supporting legislation for family farmers, youth programs, educational activities, and leadership development.

Agribusiness is South Carolina’s largest industry, generating nearly $42 billion annually and supporting more than 212,000 jobs.