Cultivating Resilience Through Purpose and Passion

To know Chip is to witness a life cultivated through devotion—to his family, to agriculture, the Lord and to the enduring power of purpose.

A celebrated figure in Florida’s agricultural landscape, Dr. Hinton’s legacy spans decades. From founding Farmers Feeding Florida, a visionary program designed to redirect fresh produce to communities in need, to serving as Executive Director of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, his influence has shaped policy and uplifted countless individuals. With a B.S. and M.S. in Agriculture and a Ph.D. in Poultry Products, Dr. Hinton’s contributions to food technology and public agricultural policy earned him honors like the FL Agriculture Hall of Fame and the University of Florida Distinguished Alumni Award. Yet his proudest accomplishments lie in mentorship—empowering future agricultural leaders with knowledge, compassion, and grit.

His love story began in a chemistry class, blossomed in a dorm filled with rescued baby chicks, and grew into 59 years of marriage. Together with his wife, Jemy, he built a life rooted in shared values and a deep connection to the land. Today, the couple still lives on 14 acres in Brandon, surrounded by the family they’ve raised—three daughters and seven grandchildren—and the farmland that continues to nourish their soul.

Before agriculture shaped his career, football shaped his discipline. As a college football player for the University of Florida, Dr. Hinton was among the first athletes to test the now-iconic Gatorade formula, created to combat dehydration and boost endurance during intense practices in Florida’s heat. That early brush with innovation proved symbolic—he’s spent a lifetime embodying the same spirit of persistence and discovery.

But life changed in October 2013 when Dr. Hinton first experienced slurred speech, a chilling symptom that marked the onset of Myasthenia Gravis (MG). Quick action led to a diagnosis—thankfully just six weeks later, a rarity in a field where many patients wait years. As his symptoms progressed to generalized weakness and difficulty swallowing, he faced a long road of trials with various treatments. It wasn’t until August 2018, when he began Soliris, that the tide truly turned. While not a “magic wand,” the drug brought meaningful and lasting improvement. Even after 12 years of living with MG, Dr. Hinton continues to engage with the world, his passion for agriculture unshaken.

Key to his well-being are the professionals at Sage Infusion Clinics in Tampa and Brandon, where he receives ongoing care. He speaks with heartfelt appreciation for the staff, calling their work “a ministry.” Their commitment, efficiency, and kindness make every visit feel like a partnership in healing. Dr. Hinton’s testament: “What you do is a ministry”—is more than gratitude; it’s a reflection of the sacred bond between healer and patient.

In his own words, “I found that I had the ability to create something that didn’t exist where there needed to be something in existence.” That spirit—of innovation, heart, and service—continues to define Dr. Hinton’s journey.