Howard Fertilizer and Chemical Company Inc. (HFC) announced the retirement of two exceptional leaders who have played pivotal roles in the company’s success over the past 20-plus years: President Dwight Kummer and Vice President of Turf Sales Cheryl Barton. They retired on Jan. 1.
“Dwight and Cheryl have been a dynamic team that has shaped Howard Fertilizer & Chemical in profound and lasting ways,” said Howard CEO Robert M. Howard, Jr. “Their combined decades of service, commitment to growth, and dedication to our people and customers have helped make HFC what it is today. We are deeply grateful for their leadership and the example they have set.”
Kummer has more than 40 years of service in the Turf industry. He joined Howard Fertilizer & Chemical in September 2001 as general manager and served as president of the company until his retirement. Prior to HFC, Kummer served as the head agronomist for the Arnold Palmer Company for 12 years. He started his career as a golf course superintendent at several courses in Florida. He holds a degree in Turfgrass Science from Gateway College and attended and completed the LSU Executive Development Program in 2013. He also is a past chairman of the board for the Prokoz organization.
Barton possesses more than 40 years of service in the Turf and AG industry. Barton joined Howard Fertilizer & Chemical in September 1999 as pesticides specialist and served as vice president of turf sales until her retirement. Prior to HFC, Barton served as southeast pesticides specialist for the IMC Agribusiness company for 15 years. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Plant and Soil Science from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.