MICHAEL BASORE

PRESIDENT, TKM BENGARD FARMS, BELLE GLADE

The Basore family moved to South Florida in search of nutrient-rich muck soil that’s colloquially called “black gold.” They settled in Belle Glade and, in 1996, established what’s now known as TKM Bengard Farms. Their fourth-generation operation — managed by six Basore brothers: Tom Jr., Brian, Toby, Kevin, Stephen and Michael — has grown into the largest lettuce grower east of the Mississippi River with over 6,500 acres of the crop. As harvest manager, Michael oversees daily operations of 15 harvest crews with 500-plus employees across three locations. He’s also a board member of the University of Florida Leadership Education Foundation, where he helps promote research and fundraising for agricultural students.

EDUCATION: University of Florida (BA)