Preserving a Legacy Along the Wye

For Jeff and Beth Horstman, supporting the University of Maryland’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources was about more than just philanthropy, it was about honoring generations of family history while investing in the future of agriculture.

The Horstmans’ connection to the college dates back nearly half a century, when Jeff ’s mother and step father donated their Wye Angus cattle herd to AGNR in 1979. As a closed herd, with no new bloodlines introduced since 1958, the Wye Angus herd is highly prized around the world and exceptionally valuable for research and beef production education.

So, when Jeff and Beth inherited land that had supported the operation since 1938, they felt a responsibility to preserve its connection to that legacy. Although the couple began living full time on the property after their children were grown, they donated 44 acres of the land surrounding their home to AGNR so their family legacy will live on at the university.

“Donating the land to the university felt like the natural next step,” Jeff said. “It ensured that this important resource could continue to serve the college’s mission and remain tied to the history and future of Wye Angus.”

The land carries deep personal meaning for the family. Jeff grew up on the property, and his mother and stepfather lived on or next to the land from 1974 until 2022. While Jeff and Beth built their careers in Pennsylvania, the Eastern Shore remained one of the most important places in their lives, serving as a family retreat where their children spent weekends, holidays, summer vacations and family reunions exploring the woods and making memories there.

Jeff ’s lifelong connection to the Wye River also shaped his commitment to conservation. Growing up along the river gave him a deep appreciation for the natural systems that make Maryland’s Eastern Shore unique. Over time, however, he witnessed environmental changes that concerned him, including the loss of underwater vegetation, declining water clarity and reduced water quality.

“Seeing those changes firsthand made me want to help protect and restore the resources that had meant so much to me growing up,” he said.

That commitment led Jeff to begin a second career in 2015 focused on advancing educational, agricultural and legislative practices on the Eastern Shore. His goal has been to support long-term conservation efforts and contribute to restoring the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

Looking ahead, the Horstmans hope their gift will help the university continue the work of Jeff ’s stepfather, who was dedicated to building and protecting a scientifically improved purebred Angus herd. They believe preserving strong purebred Angus genetics could become increasingly valuable as animal husbandry practices rely more heavily on crossbreeding.

They also hope the property will create opportunities for future generations to learn through hands-on agricultural experiences.

“We hope the gift will expand opportunities for young people to learn through hands-on agricultural experience and inspire the next generation of farmers, veterinarians and others whose lives and careers may be shaped by time spent on a working farm.” Jeff said.

For others considering philanthropy, Jeff offers simple advice: “Just do it.” Giving to a cause with personal meaning, he says, brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment that enriches life while creating opportunities for future generations.