A collage of three images. The first is a black-and-white photo of two men at a table, one signing a document. The second is a color portrait of a man with glasses, sitting at a desk with a nameplate reading "Elton R. Smith". The third is a color photo of two men standing beside a vintage car, presenting a large check.

The late Elton R. Smith served as President of the Michigan Farm Bureau and its affiliated companies from 1964 through 1986. For four of those 22 years, he was also Vice President of the American Farm Bureau Federation. He carried out the many and varied functions of these positions, in addition to continuing to manage his large dairy farm operation and serve as a leader in his community. 

This award is presented each year to the Farm Bureau Insurance Agent or Managing Partner who has exhibited the most consistent commitment to the success of Farm Bureau Insurance, Michigan Farm Bureau, the community and the insurance industry

2017 Elton R. Smith Award Winner: Scott Fair