AgFirst board approves $342 million in patronage for 2022

Jan. 18, 2023

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank’s board of directors declared $342 million in patronage for 2022. As part of AgFirst’s cooperative business model, a portion of net income is returned through patronage to the bank’s Association lending partners who provide funding to rural America and agriculture.

“Patronage is a tangible benefit of being part of our cooperative. What we deliver back to our customers has a lasting impact on agriculture and rural communities,” said AgFirst President and CEO Tim Amerson.

Member-borrowers of Farm Credit cooperatives – the farmers, ranchers and agri-business owners who work hard every day to feed, clothe and fuel the world – ultimately benefit from patronage through reduced costs of funds and services.

“Having the ability to return the majority of our profits to our partners helps our industry grow and thrive,” Amerson said. “AgFirst is proud to play a key role in this important mission.”

AgFirst’s Stacy Williams receives Equity Leadership Honor Roll Award from Columbia Urban League

Jan. 9, 2023

AgFirst Corporate Attorney Stacy Williams received the Equity Leadership Honor Roll Award from the Columbia Urban League, which recognizes individuals, groups and organizations who promote minority business development. In addition, AgFirst donated $25,000 to support the organization’s mission of providing economic empowerment and educational opportunities for those in need.

For more than a decade, Williams has announced and supported the recipients of the Columbia Urban League’s annual Young and Gifted program, which celebrates the achievements of Black high school seniors who have excelled in academics, the arts, leadership, technology and athletics. The program is held every February to commemorate Black History Month and recognize the next generation of leaders.

“I am a strong supporter of encouraging our youth,” Williams said. “I know how important it is to recognize and give credit to youth that are doing good things in the community – and who are also bettering themselves. It’s inspirational to be around these students who have bright futures ahead of them.”

AgFirst is proud of Williams’ ongoing support of the Columbia Urban League through her volunteer efforts to recognize talented Black students in South Carolina. As one of our community partners, AgFirst financially supports the Columbia Urban League every year to improve our community in the areas of education, economic empowerment, health, civic engagement and racial inclusion.

“The Urban League provides so many opportunities for those in our community,” Williams said. “I’m very proud to be part of an organization that selflessly gives to support the mission of the Columbia Urban League.”
 

AGFIRST WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR TO ITS BOARD

January 10, 2023

COLUMBIA, SC – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank stockholders have elected one new director and re-elected two incumbent directors. Alfred W. “Al” Stephens began his term on Jan. 1 and will continue to serve until Dec. 31, 2026. Directors Jack W. Bentley Jr. and Michael T. “Bo” Stone were re-elected to four-year terms also ending Dec. 31, 2026.
 
Mr. Stephens owns and operates Stephens Dairy Farm in Wytheville, Va., which consists of a dairy and beef cow/calf operation and a farming operation with crops including corn, alfalfa, wheat and grass hay. He is a member of the Farm Credit of the Virginias, ACA, board, and also serves as secretary-treasurer on the Wythe/Bland DHIA. Mr. Stephens, who received a bachelor’s degree in dairy science from Virginia Tech, also serves on the school's Dairy Science Advisory Board. 
 
AgFirst has a total of 14 directors who use their experience and expertise to help further Farm Credit’s mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services.

AgFirst’s charitable contributions support multiple communities in 2022

December 30, 2022

Serving our community is a part of our spirit of giving and this year, AgFirst donated more than $700,000 to organizations that advance and support agriculture, community development, education, and health and human services. Some of the notable contributions that made an impact in various communities include the following:

Midlands community partners

AgFirst works with several community partners year-round to enhance the quality of life in the Midlands and support people in need. From giving $50,000 to our neighbor Transitions Homeless Center to $25,000 to Columbia Urban League, these contributions uplift those who need help the most. To support United Way’s impact on the Midlands, the bank donated $60,000 to the organization as it provides programs and resources for the region’s most vulnerable.

To ensure more individuals in our community have access to nutritious food, AgFirst contributed $10,000 to Harvest Hope Food Bank and $10,000 to FoodShare to combat food insecurity.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives

Knowing the importance of investing in diverse communities and creating opportunities for people from a wide variety of backgrounds, AgFirst continues to invest in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In support of HBCUs, the bank donated $88,000 to Benedict College, Claflin University, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and South Carolina State University to provide scholarships, laptops and professional development opportunities for students. This year, AgFirst was named South Carolina State University Career Center Employer of the Year for the bank’s ongoing contributions to the joint Partnering for Progress initiative.

Continuing our investment in education, the bank donated $25,000 to the South Carolina Governor’s School for Agriculture and $12,000 for our annual Native American and Latino Scholarships, where four college students with a passion for serving rural communities and agriculture each received a $3,000 scholarship.

Hurricane relief efforts

When Hurricane Fiona and Hurricane Ian uprooted the lives of many in the Southeastern and mid-Atlantic regions of the United States and Puerto Rico, AgFirst quickly responded contributing $100,000 (in addition to the $25,000 corporate donation earlier in the year) to the Red Cross supporting the organization’s relief efforts providing food, shelter, medical and other supplies to hurricane victims.

Employee-requested contributions

AgFirst is proud to have employees engaged in organizations making a difference in our community. To support organizations our employees are involved in, the bank donated nearly $35,000 through employee requested donations. Some in a long list of organizations include Community Options, Pathways to Healing, Columbia Opportunity Resource, Midlands Housing Trust Fund and Ezekiel Ministries.

The bank and its employees donated $15,000 to organizations on this year’s charity schedule, such as Oliver Gospel Mission, Palmetto Place Children’s Shelter, Ronald McDonald House and Wounder Warrior Project.

We’re proud to contribute and partner with organizations committed to supporting a variety of causes. In 2023, we look forward to continuing our year-round support of agriculture initiatives, while creating opportunities for students and working to empower our community partners in making a difference in the lives of many.

AgFirst donates $165,000 to United Way of the Midlands during annual workplace campaign

November 22, 2022

AgFirst is a strong supporter of the United Way of the Midlands and during this year’s United Way workplace campaign, our employees and retirees generously raised $115,000 to make our community a better place. In addition, AgFirst gave a $50,000 corporate donation to the campaign.

“Giving back is part of our company culture, and I’m proud of how our workforce rises to the occasion to invest in our community,” said AgFirst President and CEO Tim Amerson. “When we harness the power of our collective giving, we in turn empower organizations like United Way to continue uplifting others in need.”

Each year, the AgFirst workforce comes together to support United Way of the Midlands as the organization continues to improve the lives of Midlands-area residents. With this campaign, coupled with AgFirst’s year-round support of the organization, we’re helping build stronger, safer and healthier communities.

AgFirst welcomes Darrick Paul as new Chief Human Resources Officer

November 16, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank is pleased to welcome our new Chief Human Resources Officer Darrick Paul. Paul was selected after an extensive nationwide search and will serve on the bank’s executive management team.

Paul brings a wealth of Human Resources leadership experience spanning 16 years and has been working in the field for more than 25 years. He most recently worked as Chief People Officer at the Medical University of South Carolina Health in Charleston.

He also worked for a decade in Human Resources leadership at Denver-based Catholic Health Initiatives, the nation’s second-largest nonprofit health system. While there, he led efforts at hospitals and hospital systems in Arkansas, Missouri and Colorado.

Darrick earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia and a dual master’s degree in business administration and HR and healthcare administration from American Intercontinental University. He also holds several certifications from professional industry groups.

“We are excited to welcome Darrick to the AgFirst team. With his experience and expertise in the Human Resources field, we look forward to the contributions he will make,” CEO Tim Amerson said.

AgFirst, CoBank, Farm Credit Bank of Texas and Farmer Mac participate in hurricane relief effort

October 7, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC – AgFirst, CoBank, Farm Credit Bank of Texas and Farmer Mac joined together to provide $325,000 in relief aid for those hard hit by Hurricane Fiona and Hurricane Ian. These entities share a common mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture with financial and other services. Funds will be donated to the American Red Cross.

Ian ripped across Florida last week and made a second landfall in South Carolina, just one week after Fiona slammed the Puerto Rican coast, dumping historic amounts of rain, destroying infrastructure and leaving the entire island without power. Ian ravaged communities and left a death toll of more than 100 people in its wake. The hurricanes heavily affected the Southeastern and mid-Atlantic regions of the United States and Puerto Rico, bringing damage to numerous farms, livestock and fall crops along the way.

“Our hearts go out to the people and communities affected by these devastating storms. We hope these funds will bring much needed relief in the short-term to those who are hurting and also provide assistance as they begin to rebuild,” said AgFirst CEO Tim Amerson.

The Red Cross and its partners are working around the clock to deliver food, medical and other supplies to hurricane victims. In addition, these groups are providing shelter for those who lost their homes, organizing blood drives and offering mental health support. The organization continues to assess damage to determine the level of help that will be needed in the coming weeks.

“Moving past the damage caused by Ian and Fiona will be difficult. It takes all of us pulling together to help these communities begin to rebuild,” Amerson said. “AgFirst and our partners are blessed to be in a position to provide relief where it is needed the most.”

Photo credit: Marko Kokic/American Red Cross

Employees instilling a renewed sense of hope at Transitions Homeless Center

October 5, 2022

Two AgFirst employees are helping to instill a renewed sense of possibility and hope for Midlands-area residents who turn to the Transitions Homeless Center for a lifeline.

Glenda Thompson, director of organizational development and training, is making a difference as a member of the Transitions board of directors, while Kaih Taylor, third-party risk management manager, serves as the Bank’s Transitions engagement coordinator.

Open 365 days a year, Transitions serves an average of 350 adult clients daily, including 260 residents. From 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., an average of 85 to 95 Day Center users pass through the center’s metal detectors, check in, shower, get a haircut, have lunch and socialize. Since it opened its doors June 2011, Transitions has served more than 2,178,600 nutritious meals and moved over 3,200 clients into permanent housing.

Taylor became a Transitions volunteer in 2018. Today, she oversees the deployment of Bank volunteers to serve lunch on the first Wednesday of each month and works with departments to schedule team-building opportunities.

“Over time, the relationships I built with other volunteers at the center, and more importantly, the residents, made me want to become more involved,” Taylor said. “So when our previous volunteer coordinator left, I was asked to take her place, and I jumped at the chance.”

Seeing the direct impact volunteers make on the homeless community is what continues to motivate Taylor in her quest to help others. “Seeing the gratitude on the faces of people which we are able to impact and serve a meal is special. Knowing that there are organizations in our community like Transitions that are helping those in need motivates me to stay plugged in and do all I can to help.”

Thompson says she became involved with Transitions because she believes everyone needs support at one time or another, and you never know when you might need help caring for yourself or a loved one.

“As a young woman, I was bounced among multiple family members. While I was never completely homeless, I have deep feelings for those who are and are seeking help to find housing and become more independent,” said Thompson, now in her sixth year as a Transitions board member. She can also sometimes be found working the serving line during lunch.

Like Taylor, Thompson is always looking for opportunities to support the people who need Transitions’ services the most. Not long after she joined the board, her team suggested conducting a sock drive, since socks are one of the most requested items of homeless shelters. That year, 100 pairs of socks and other items were donated to Transitions. Today, the sock drive is a regular end-of-year event that generates considerable employee support. During the pandemic more than 1,000 pairs of socks were purchased for the center during a virtual version of the event.

AgFirst is proud of Taylor and Thompson’s efforts to support the most vulnerable members of our community.

Meet the recipients of AgFirst’s Native American and Latino scholarships

July 26, 2022

Four college students with a passion for serving rural communities and agriculture are the 2022 recipients of AgFirst’s Native American and Latino scholarships.

Now in its second year, the scholarship program is the result of a partnership with the Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF) and Minorities in Agriculture Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANNRS) to offer $3,000 higher education scholarships to Native American and Latino students enrolled in agricultural programs.

Get to know this year’s recipients and learn how they plan to make a difference in agriculture. 

Alex Davis – Native American scholarship recipient
Davis is a junior at the University of Arkansas studying agriculture. She is passionate about helping native tribes tackle obstacles related to food security and sovereignty. Davis also hopes to make livestock processing more efficient for Native American communities.

Kyleen Hewitt – Native American scholarship recipient
Hewitt is a senior at the University of Southern Arkansas studying agriculture. She is currently interning at Farm Credit of Arkansas. As someone who grew up on a ranch, Hewitt plans to pursue a career in ag financing. She seeks to be involved in agriculture at the ground level to support those who make it their way of life.

Avelardo Vargas – Latino scholarship recipient
Vargas is a senior at the University of Idaho studying animal and veterinary science with a focus in dairy science. His mission is to give back to the rural community that gave him so much. Vargas seeks to be involved in dairy operations by helping producers improve herd health and nutrition.

Jaci Deitrick – Native American scholarship recipient
Deitrick is a first-year graduate student at the University of Oklahoma. She is active in livestock research, specializing in cattle insemination, and hopes to develop healthy and hardy breeds of cattle. Deitrick aspires to work for a company that helps agriculturalists from a business side.

AgFirst is proud to award these bright students with this year’s scholarships as they embark on careers supporting rural communities.

AgFirst receives community awards from United Way of the Midlands

May 9​, 2022

AgFirst is the proud recipient of several awards from United Way of the Midlands relating to community impact, employee engagement and financial support. For her work leading last year’s United Way workplace campaign, Laura Kauffman (middle), AgFirst executive project coordinator, was named campaign director of the year. AgFirst also received the Gold Award, and its workplace campaign was recognized as an advanced campaign.

“I’m honored to receive this award, especially as it helps recognize the hard work of our whole AgFirst United Way campaign team and the commitment of our leadership and employees,” Kauffman said. “United Way plays a crucial role in the Midlands to unite people and provide resources to improve the quality of life in our area.”

Last year, AgFirst employees raised $176,000 for United Way during the annual workplace campaign. Giving increased 9% from the previous year and surpassed the Bank's initial goal. Employees are the backbone of these campaigns, and their generosity was recognized with AgFirst receiving United Way’s Gold Award. This award is given to a company with an employee per capita gift of $150-$399.

Additionally, AgFirst’s workplace campaign was recognized as an advanced campaign. This celebrates a company that completes United Way campaigns before the official launch of campaign season.

“I’m incredibly proud of our team and the great campaign we ran to unite our company and give back to our community,” Kauffman said.

These awards from United Way show the generosity, dedication and enthusiasm the AgFirst workforce has in supporting our community.

AgFirst’s Griggs elected board chair for Girl Scouts of South Carolina – Mountains to Midlands

March 10​, 2022

AgFirst Senior Vice President and General Counsel Frances Griggs was elected board chair for Girl Scouts of South Carolina – Mountains to Midlands for 2022. In addition, AgFirst recently donated $25,000 to support the organization’s efforts to prepare today’s girls to become tomorrow’s leaders.

Griggs’ involvement, coupled with AgFirst’s financial support, helps advance the Girl Scouts’ mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. The organization serves more than 7,500 girls and adults in 22 counties in the state.

Griggs’ involvement with Girl Scouts began as a Brownie and developed into serving as a volunteer, co-leading a troop and eventually serving on the Girl Scouts of South Carolina – Mountains to Midlands board. Griggs believes in the Girl Scout mission because she’s seen how it transformed her life, her daughter’s and countless girls throughout the years.

“To have a name like AgFirst supporting Girl Scouts is huge in the community,” Griggs said. “Girl Scouts provides girls with leadership development and life skills, and to have the financial backing to be able to offer those programs that support that mission is critical.”

Located less than a mile from AgFirst is the Cathy Novinger Girl Scout Leadership Center, which provides innovative learning and leadership experiences for girls locally and statewide. The center creates opportunities for girls in a safe and welcoming environment.

AgFirst is proud to continue its support of Girl Scouts of South Carolina – Mountains to Midlands as it invests in girls statewide to enable them to discover their strengths, rise to meet new challenges and make their communities a better place.

AgFirst donations benefit several communities in 2021

December 31​, 2021

This year, AgFirst donated more than $600,000 to organizations that improve lives in our community, provide opportunities for those starting out in the industry and support agriculture. See some of the notable donations from the year.

Midlands impact

To fight homelessness in the Midlands, AgFirst gave $50,000 to Transitions Homeless Shelter, allowing the organization to purchase essential items and make needed kitchen equipment repairs. AgFirst has a strong commitment to the United Way of the Midlands, and this year, gave $60,000 to the organization. Continuing with our community investment, AgFirst donated $25,000 to the Columbia Urban league to support programs providing economic empowerment and educational opportunities for those in need.

Relief efforts

A corporate donation of $25,000 was given to Red Cross earlier this year, and when Hurricane Ida left devastation in its wake, AgFirst gave an additional $25,000 to support relief efforts for people recovering from the natural disaster.

In December, a series of tornadoes ravaged Kentucky and destroyed homes, lives and livelihoods. The storms affected farmers and agricultural business owners with widespread destruction of farmland and production facilities. To help those in agriculture begin to recover from this destruction, AgFirst donated $50,000 to the Kentucky Agriculture Relief Fund.

Inclusivity in agriculture

Four college students benefited from a new scholarship program investing in Native American and Latino students. By partnering with the Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF) and Minorities in Agriculture Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANNRS), AgFirst awarded each recipient $3,000 for the school year to support their aspirations in serving rural communities.

Knowing that Black farmers face unique needs in agriculture, AgFirst donated $10,000 to the National Black Growers Council (NBGC) to support its mission to improve efficiency, productivity and sustainability of Black farmers.

AgFirst is proud to partner with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and this year, gave $87,000 to support Benedict College, Claflin University, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and South Carolina State University. Donations provided scholarships and professional development opportunities for students and provided support for each school’s career center.

Continuing our investment in education, AgFirst donated $25,000 to the South Carolina Governor's School for Agriculture to support the next generation of leaders in the industry.

Employee-requested contributions

Our employees continually serve our community to make it a better place. This year, AgFirst gave $28,500 to organizations our employees support. These donations improve education, community development, and health and human services. Just some in a long list of organizations include Sistercare, Make-a-Wish, Palmetto Place Children’s Center and Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands. 

While the pandemic prevented us from collecting employee donations supporting a new local charity each month, AgFirst donated $2,000 each to the charities on the 2021 schedule, like Oliver Gospel Mission, Salvation Army, March of Dimes and other organizations, totaling $20,000 in contributions.

In this season of giving – and year round – AgFirst is proud to support organizations making a difference. Donating to uplift and empower various communities will always be a part of who we are.

AgFirst employees raise $176,000 for United Way workplace campaign

November 22​, 2021

AgFirst employees have a spirit of giving that makes our community a better place to live, work and grow.

Last August, AgFirst employees raised $176,000 for United Way of the Midlands during the annual workplace campaign. Out of this contribution, employees and retirees pledged $126,000 in addition to AgFirst’s $50,000 corporate donation.

Employee giving increased 9% from the previous year and surpassed the Bank's initial United Way goal of $120,000. These donations to United Way improve lives in the Midlands in the areas of education, financial stability and health.

“I am proud of the generosity of our workplace because these contributions strengthen United Way’s outreach efforts to local individuals and families who need it most,” said AgFirst President and CEO Tim Amerson. “This campaign shows how our workplace can step up to the challenge to give back and give big to support our community.”

Employees contribute to this cause annually because they believe in the mission of the United Way, which connects community services with the disadvantaged, the disabled and individuals and families unable to meet basic needs.

United Way continues to serve a vital role in the community, and donations made to the organization reinforce AgFirst’s commitment to lifting up others in need.

AgFirst donates $25,000 to American Red Cross in support of Hurricane Ida relief

October 19​, 2021

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank has donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross in support of the organization’s Hurricane Ida relief efforts.

As Ida plowed through the Gulf Coast and into the nation’s interior last September, the Category 4 hurricane left a wide swath of devastation in its wake. Many weeks later, the American Red Cross continues to deliver vital aid to people still struggling to recover.

The Bank’s donation is an addition to a $25,000 annual gift presented to the American Red Cross earlier this year.

“AgFirst has been a proud supporter of the American Red Cross for many years, and we salute the hundreds of staff members and volunteers still on the ground helping people whose lives have been turned upside down as a result of Ida,” said AgFirst President and CEO Tim Amerson. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who is still feeling the effects of this powerful hurricane.”

As of Sept. 20, the American Red Cross has distributed more than 245,800 relief items, deployed more than 2,700 disaster workers and provided more than 592,000 meals and snacks to Americans affected by Hurricane Ida.

Farm Credit University offers leading educational ag opportunities

July 15​, 2021

For nearly two decades, AgFirst’s Farm Credit University (FCU) has created success stories in the lives of agriculture professionals by offering affordable educational opportunities that serve various business needs. 

This program strengthens AgFirst’s mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture by providing professional development and lifelong learning opportunities for farmers, ag lenders and Farm Credit employees.

“Farm Credit University is a multi-faceted program in terms of subject matter and audiences that stands the test of time, with nearly 7,000 enrollments nationwide in the past 17 years,” said Dr. David Kohl, chancellor of Farm Credit University. “Individuals who made the investment to participate in the wide range of programs for lenders and producers are now emerging as the next generation of leaders in the agriculture and ag lending industry.”

Course variety

FCU offers courses for a variety of professionals.

Producers. Agriculture can be a tough profession, which is why FCU provides the tools to take careers and businesses to the next level. The Producer Academy features online courses for farmers and ranchers designed to fit their busy schedules to successfully launch, grow and manage their businesses to excel in today’s marketplace.

Ag lenders can also benefit from the Credit Academy to boost their knowledge and careers, whether they are new to lending or have years of industry experience. This program embraces the fundamentals in credit risk and financial analysis training, and guides individuals through the process of structuring different types of loans for ag businesses.

Farm Credit employees. FCU offers professional development and training opportunities for Farm Credit employees with access to the Leadership Academy and Credit Academy. In these programs, employees advance their writing, leadership, presentation, negotiation, credit analysis and sales skills. FCU also offers the Launch Pad new employee orientation and Ag 101, an overview of American agriculture and the businesses Farm Credit finances.

“We’re very proud of the FCU brand and of our mission to bring high quality, affordable training solutions to producers, lenders and Farm Credit employees,” said Ronnie Hucks, AgFirst District learning liaison.

Accessibility

From interactive online content to on-demand and in person sessions, FCU is widely accessible through multiple delivery methods to help industry professionals improve their management and business planning skills. The flexibility gives individuals the choice to work at their own pace and the option to interact with their peers and instructors. This access further supports Farm Credit’s mission of preparing young, beginning, small and minority farmers and ranchers for more successful careers.

“Networking is critical in the agriculture industry,” said Alicia Morris, director of Farm Credit University Training. “FCU’s training provides educational as well as networking opportunities amongst Farm Credit employees and ag lenders nationwide. The blended training approach accelerates knowledge transfer and enhances lifelong professional and personal relationships.”

FCU value

The FCU value is evident in the courses and training materials that apply real-world scenarios and exercises to today’s agribusiness market. For example, the Ag Biz Planner course guides farmers and ranchers through the process of developing a business plan and working with agricultural lenders, while the Commercial Ag Lender course focuses on structuring different types of loans for ag businesses and the principles of writing an effective loan narrative and negotiating terms of a loan.

Courses are designed by industry experts who apply their knowledge of rural and agriculture markets to all materials to provide premier educational resources supporting professionals within the ag industry. All courses are in line with industry standards and are peer-reviewed by leading academics, lenders, members of the Farm Financial Standards Council and instructional design professionals.

Simply put, with Farm Credit University, you’re learning from the best.

To learn more about Farm Credit University and its educational programs, visit fcuniversity.com.

Students receive AgFirst’s inaugural Native American and Latino scholarships

May 19, 2021

Four college students in the AgFirst District will benefit from a new scholarship program investing in Native American and Latino students as we seek to advance diversity within agriculture.

Last year, AgFirst partnered with the Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF) and Minorities in Agriculture Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANNRS) to establish four scholarships serving Native American and Latino students in the farming and ranching communities. These scholarships are awarded to students studying in fields related to business or agriculture, with each recipient receiving $3,000 for the school year. 

More than 60 students applied for these scholarships nationwide. Now meet the bright and talented recipients for the 2021-2022 school year. See how they embody AgFirst’s mission in supporting rural communities to impact more. 

Peyton McMillan – Native American Scholarship Recipient – North Carolina State University

Peyton was raised in a farming community and is a vendor at several area farmers markets. She works with local youth programs during the summer providing tours on her family’s hydroponic farm, which produces nearly 2,000 heads of lettuce weekly. Peyton is an advocate for cleaner methods of food production. “Knowing that I planted, cultivated, raised and preserved a lot of the food I ate thrills me,” she said.  

Peyton is aware that small family-owned farms are not without their financial hurdles. Supporting small farmers is one reason she’s pursuing a career as an agricultural engineer. 

Dallana Castrejon – Latino Scholarship Recipient –University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Dallana is a first-generation Mexican American student aspiring to achieve her dreams and to support rural communities. She is active in her community providing translation services to Latino families. Her mother and aunts work in the farming industry on products including tobacco, strawberries, blueberries and sweet potatoes. She’s involved in suckering the flowers on tobacco plants. This is a process of pruning out the unproductive leaves. 

By working toward a degree in business administration, Dallana seeks to be better equipped in supporting rural communities with the business and technology services they need to succeed. 

Rachel Hagen – Latino Scholarship Recipient – North Carolina State University 

Rachel seeks to make an impact on the agricultural community through scientific research. She’s working to be a veterinary pathologist in the hopes of improving animal medicine to lessen the burden many farmers go through to maintain their animals’ safety and happiness.

As president of the science club of the local community college, she proposes projects that preserve native flora and leads efforts within her community to appreciate nature. Her passion for plants and animals is evident in her service, and she currently works part-time as a vet assistant at the Hudson Animal Hospital.

Jaelyn Dove – Native American Scholarship Recipient – North Carolina State University

Jaelyn participates in discussions and research issues that affect Indigenous people through the Native Education Forum. She plans on pursuing a veterinary degree after graduating from North Carolina State University's Animal Science Program.

Supporting farmers in rural communities is her priority upon graduating from veterinary school. She’s learned that it’s often difficult to get a veterinarian out quickly for an emergency farm call. With that in mind, it’s her desire to make farmers a priority when it comes to their livelihood of raising cattle, pigs and horses.

Impact More

AgFirst is proud to award scholarships to these outstanding students to support their aspirations in serving rural communities. The investment in this annual scholarship is a commitment to strengthening our alliance with Native American and Latino farmers and producers. 

AgFirst sponsorships helping further agricultural education in the Carolinas

April 13, 2021

AgFirst has partnered with the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association (CFSA) to help further agricultural education in the Carolinas.

The CFSA is a farmer-driven, membership-based nonprofit organization that helps people in North Carolina and South Carolina grow and eat local, organic food by advocating for fair farm and food policies; building systems that family farms need to thrive; and educating communities about local, organic agriculture.

AgFirst is providing sponsorships for four Farm Credit University courses to help fill the association’s need for training for their producer members and staff. Two courses will be for professional development and two for agricultural producers.

AgFirst has also donated $2,500 to help the association purchase a farm truck for its new-farmer training ground, the Elma C. Lomax Research and Education Farm. The facility also conducts research, provides hands-on learning for students, serves as a business incubator and hosts workshops for farmers and the general public.

Read more about the organization on their website.

AgFirst partners with BRWIA to increase food access, support regional farmers

March 18, 2021

Ensuring access to high-quality local food is vital to a strong community. That’s why AgFirst Farm Credit Bank is proud to support Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture in their efforts to increase food access while also supporting regional farmers.

The women-led organization will use a $5,000 donation from AgFirst to support its Winter Farmers’ Market in Boone, N.C. Shoppers at this market can take advantage of the group’s Double Up Food Bucks program, which doubles the value of federal nutrition benefits they spend there. 

AgFirst will continue to support BRWIA through in-kind contributions related to printing and marketing services. 
Learn more about the group and its efforts on their website.

AgFirst announces patronage distribution of $394 million for 2020

January 19, 2021

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank’s board of directors has approved a total patronage distribution of $394 million for 2020. This record patronage amount is the result of robust earnings achieved in 2020 as the Bank took advantage of historically low interest rates by refinancing debt to lower costs. AgFirst also benefited from relatively stable credit quality despite economic turbulence largely due to the pandemic.

“The AgFirst board and I are very pleased to announce this distribution,” said AgFirst President and CEO Tim Amerson. “This year’s distribution represents a financial boost to our affiliated Associations following a year of unprecedented challenges.”

Patronage is a valuable benefit of membership in the Farm Credit System and its cooperative model because it ultimately reduces the cost of funds and services for the System’s member-borrowers, many of whom are farmers and small business owners keeping the wheels of American agriculture turning.

AgFirst employees part of innovative virtual holiday celebration

December 28, 2020

The AgFirst building at 1901 Main St. recently did a great impression of the North Pole – despite the warm, sunny weather outside.

AgFirst partnered with property management company Colliers International to stage a winter wonderland so they could record a holiday celebration for building tenants and their families to enjoy virtually.

The event featured local acts including a story reading from the popular SC Santa. In addition, Rhythmics Performing Arts, a Lexington dance, art, music and drama studio, provided ballerinas for a Nutcracker dance routine, and Columbia’s Carillon Carolers sang holiday carols to conclude the evening. AgFirst employees and their children watched the recorded event on Dec. 17 from their homes and were provided holiday treat bags. 

For several years, Colliers hosted a holiday breakfast for tenants in the lobby of the building. The unique obstacles of this year meant a fresh and creative collaboration between Colliers and the AgFirst Employee Engagement Committee. The groups devised a plan for an event that was safe, accessible and entertaining for families.

“We are so appreciative to Colliers for finding a safe, creative way to bring festivities to our employees and their families,” said AgFirst Human Resources Vice President Jeff Payne. “This event illustrated two of our core company values — reliability and collaboration. Our employees look forward to this event every year and we are pleased that the tradition continued. Despite being physically distant, it’s these strong community partnerships that draw our relationships closer. The production was a great example of how far many companies, including AgFirst and Colliers International, are going to safely celebrate the holidays.”

AgFirst interns receive Launching Leaders stipend

July 31, 2020

Four AgFirst interns have been selected to receive stipends from the Farm Credit Council’s inaugural Launching Leaders Stipend program. Hermela Gebremedhin, Jasmine Glisson, Alexis Mack and Andjela Mihajlovic each will receive $3,500 to offset living costs associated with the internship.

The stipend is available to Farm Credit interns who are students at, or recent graduates of, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU).

AgFirst is proud of each of these student interns. Read more about them below:

• Jasmine Glisson is an application development intern. She is a senior at South Carolina State University majoring in computer science with a focus on cybersecurity.
• Alexis Mack is an application development intern spending her second summer interning with AgFirst. She is a senior at Claflin University pursuing a degree in applied mathematics and a minor in computer science.
• Hermela Gebremedhin serves as an IT intern also in her second year with AgFirst. Hermela is a senior at Benedict College majoring in computer engineering.
• Andjela Mihajlovic is an application development intern. She is a senior at South Carolina State University majoring in computer science and minoring in cybersecurity.

The Launching Leaders Stipend is part of Farm Credit’s commitment to the HBCU Partnership Challenge, a public pledge through which organizations commit to creating or deepening relationships with HBCUs with a goal of recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce from these institutions.

Visit agfirst.com/careers to find internships and other opportunities at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank.

AgFirst, Association partners team to support businesses and the community during COVID-19 pandemic

April 24, 2020 

As businesses and local communities continue to feel the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, AgFirst and our Association partners continue to find ways to fulfill our core mission of lending support to rural communities and agriculture. At the same time, we have stepped up our contributions to non-profit organizations that provide lifelines to local communities impacted by the current crisis.

“We recognize that small businesses like local farms and producers are the lifeblood of America,” AgFirst President and CEO Tim Amerson said. “Our calling is to provide the support they need to keep the wheels of agriculture turning. We strive to provide that support in all conditions, but it’s never more important than in times like these.”

To that effect, AgFirst is taking the following steps in response to the pandemic’s impact on small businesses and rural home owners:

• We are working together with our Association partners to quickly enable emergency lending support as part of the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program. These loans help small businesses keep their workforce employed during the crisis.
• As nationwide unemployment soars, we are collaborating with our Association partners to establish a mortgage loan deferral program that will help keep rural residents in their homes during these challenging times.

In parallel, our support extends to non-profit organizations that help our neighbors in need:

• Since the pandemic began, AgFirst has donated $100,000 to community organizations, including the American Red Cross, Harvest Hope Food Bank, United Way of the Midlands and Transitions Homeless Center.
• We also continue to fund our Jeans Days program to support a variety of local charities. This program typically relies on employees to donate $5 in return for wearing blue jeans each Friday. However, since most of our employees have been working remotely, AgFirst instead is donating the average amount raised each month to the chosen organization.

“I am proud of AgFirst and our Association partners, who have stepped up to continue to help our communities and our small businesses members through these challenging times. Along with other Farm Credit institutions, we remain steadfast in our commitment to agriculture and rural America.” Amerson said.

New directors elected to AgFirst Farm Credit Bank board

Media Contact
Maribeth Corbett
Vice President and Corporate Secretary
Corporate Services
803.753.2418 | mcorbett@agfirst.com

Jan. 9, 2020

COLUMBIA, SC – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank stockholders have elected two new directors and re-elected three incumbent directors to four-year terms. A new outside director also has been appointed to the board.

All six began their terms on the Board of Directors for the Columbia-based bank Jan. 1, 2020, and will serve until Dec. 31, 2023.

Mike Patrick of Canton, Miss., and Gary Baldosser of Republic, Ohio, are newly elected to the board. Sherry Bowden of Johns Island, S.C., was appointed by the board as an outside director. William Robinson of St. Matthews, S.C.; Jenny Black of Lakeland, Fla.; and Ellis Taylor of Roanoke Rapids, N.C., were re-elected.

AgFirst is a cooperative that provides funding and technology services to banks that serve farmers and rural communities in the Eastern United States and Puerto Rico.

Mike Patrick is a partner in a 3,700-acre farming operation that produces cotton, corn, soybeans and timber. A lifelong farmer, Patrick earned his bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State and his MBA from the University of Mississippi in an effort to become a better farmer, businessman and community member. He currently serves on the Board of Commissioners for Madison County (Miss.) Soil and Water and is a former chairman and current director for First South Farm Credit, an AgFirst-affiliated association. He is a member of the Delta Council, an economic development organization in the Mississippi Delta.

Gary Baldosser is a fourth-generation farmer in Ohio, whose partnership with Farm Credit has set him up for success and will allow him to pass the family business on to his own sons. His operation consists of 2,200 acres of row crops, including corn, soybeans, wheat and hay. He also runs a 25-head cow/calf operation and sells the finished cattle as freezer beef. Baldosser received his bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from The Ohio State University. He has served numerous community and industry organizations and is currently vice chairman and Compensation Committee chairman of the Ag Credit Board of Directors; Ag Credit is an AgFirst-affiliated association.

Sherry Bowden has a diverse background in financial services. She worked in banking and finance for more than three decades, most recently as a CFO at State Street Corp. in Boston. She is certified in public accountancy and as a personal property appraiser and is trained in business process improvement as a Six Sigma Green Belt. Bowden received her bachelor’s degree in economics from the College of William and Mary. She also earned a Master of International Management in finance from the American Graduate School of International Management and an MBA from Drury University in a dual degree program. She has served a variety of professional and community organizations and is currently a Central Region board member and vice president of marketing for Boy Scouts of America.

William Robinson is owner-operator of Robinson Family Farm, which consists of hay, corn, cattle and timber. He is executive director for The SEFA Group, an engineering, construction and transportation company. He is also a member of the Orangeburg Area Cattleman’s Association and South Carolina Farm Bureau and serves on the board for the TriCounty Electric Cooperative. Robinson earned engineering degrees from Clemson University and an MBA from Charleston Southern University. He serves on the board of AgSouth Farm Credit, an AgFirst-affiliated association, and on a variety of Farm Credit committees.

Jenny Black owns and operates Jenny Black Consulting, LLC, an information technology consulting company. She also serves as the manager for the following citrus and agricultural operations: Ridge Investments, LLC; Black & Myers Properties; and BHB Holdings, LLC. She is a director of Farm Credit of Central Florida, an AgFirst-affiliated association, and recently was elected to the National Farm Credit Council Board, a trade organization. She is involved in a variety of community and industry organizations. Black holds has a bachelor’s degree and an MBA from the University of South Florida.

Ellis Taylor is owner/operator of a row crop operation, Mush Island Farms, LLC, which consists of cotton, soybeans, wheat, corn and timber. He also is part owner of Roanoke Cotton Company, LLC, which operates three cotton gins and a warehouse. Taylor serves on the board of AgCarolina Farm Credit, an AgFirst-affiliated association, and the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corp., as well as other agricultural organizations. He has bachelor’s degrees in agronomy and ag business management and a master’s in economics from North Carolina State University.

AgFirst has 17 directors who use their experience and expertise to help further the mission of Farm Credit: Supporting rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services, today and tomorrow.

About AgFirst

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank is one of four banks that make up the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the largest financial institution headquartered in South Carolina. Farm Credit has supported rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services for more than 100 years. AgFirst is a cooperative providing funding and/or services to 20 Associations in 18 states and Puerto Rico.

New directors elected to AgFirst Farm Credit Bank board

COLUMBIA, SC – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank stockholders have elected two new directors and re-elected a current director to four-year terms. All three will begin their terms on the Board of Directors for the Columbia-based bank Jan. 1, 2019, and will serve until Dec. 31, 2022.

Thomas E. Porter Jr. of Concord, N.C., and Jack W. Bentley Jr. of Tignall, Ga., are newly elected to the board; however, both have served on the board previously. Michael T. “Bo” Stone of Rowland, N.C., was re-elected.

AgFirst is a cooperative that provides funding and technology services to banks that serve farmers and rural communities in the Eastern part of the United States and Puerto Rico.

Thomas E. Porter Jr. grew his business, Porter Farms Inc., from the ground up with the help of Farm Credit. He started with five cows on rented land and now owns and runs a 1,000-acre farm consisting of a 2,200-sow farrow-to-wean hog operation; a poultry operation with four layer houses and four pullet houses; and a 350-head cow/calf backgrounding operation. He and his family recently added an agritourism business, The Farm at Brusharbor LLC. Porter has won numerous farming and environmental awards. He has North Carolina general contractor and plumbing licenses. Porter is a director of Carolina Farm Credit, a board member of the North Carolina Poultry Federation and president of Cabarrus County Farm Bureau.

Jack W. Bentley Jr. has worked as a dairy farmer, beef cattle farmer and timber proprietor in Tignall, Ga., for nearly four decades. He started A&J Dairy after graduating from Clemson University with a bachelor’s degree in ag mechanization and business. His operations now consist of more than 1,100 acres of crops, pastures and timberland, as well as 400 dairy cows and 400 replacement heifers. Bentley has served on Farm Credit boards for more than 30 years. He is a director with AgGeorgia Farm Credit and has served on a wide range of committees. He also completed the Director Leadership Institutes for Banking and is a certified tax assessor. He is vice chairman of the board for the American Dairy Alliance and serves on a range of other agriculture-related boards.

Michael T. “Bo” Stone runs a diverse agricultural operation in Rowland, N.C. His operations, P&S Farms Inc. and Bo Stone Farms LLC, consist of 2,500 acres of row crops, a 70-cow beef herd and six finishing floors finishing 10,000 hogs annually. He also grows strawberries and sweet corn to sell at a roadside stand. He is a director of Cape Fear Farm Credit and the Farm Credit Council and serves several other agricultural organizations. Stone received his bachelor’s degree in ag business management with a minor in animal science and his masters in agriculture from N.C. State University. He has completed several leadership programs. Stone is the national spokesman for the agriculture industry for the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance and has won numerous agricultural awards, including the Southeastern Ag Expo N.C. Farmer of the Year.

AgFirst has 17 directors who use their experience and expertise to help further the mission of Farm Credit: Supporting rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services, today and tomorrow.

About AgFirst

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank is one of four banks that make up the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the largest financial institution headquartered in South Carolina. Farm Credit has supported rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services for more than 100 years. AgFirst is a cooperative providing funding and/or services to 20 Associations in 18 states and Puerto Rico.

New director elected to AgFirst Farm Credit Bank board

COLUMBIA, SC – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank has elected a new director to fill a vacant seat on the board of directors. Jenny R. Black, a citrus grower and owner of an Information Technology consulting company in Lakeland, Fla., will serve the remainder of a term vacated in January. Her term expires Dec. 31, 2019.

AgFirst is a cooperative based in Columbia, S.C., that provides funding and technology services to banks that serve farmers and rural communities in the Eastern part of the United States and Puerto Rico.

Black, a lifelong Florida resident, brings an agricultural background and an expertise in IT to the board. She owns 375 acres of citrus groves, navigating today’s challenges of disease and market pressure with diligence, strategic planning and a commitment to the future. Black is a member of Peace River Packing Company, a family-owned citrus cooperative.

Black and her husband, Norman Larry Black Jr., received the Outstanding Young Farmer and Rancher award from the Florida Farm Bureau in 2009 and went on to become finalists for the national award.

She is on the board for Farm Credit of Central Florida, an AgFirst Association, and serves on the Governance and Compensation committees. She is also on the Polk County Florida 4-H Foundation Board and is a member of the Polk County Farm Bureau and Florida Citrus Mutual.

AgFirst has 17 directors who use their experience and expertise to help further the mission of Farm Credit: Supporting rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services, today and tomorrow.

About AgFirst Farm Credit Bank
AgFirst Farm Credit Bank is one of four banks that make up the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the largest financial institution headquartered in South Carolina. Farm Credit has supported rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services for more than 100 years. AgFirst is a cooperative providing funding to 19 Associations in 15 states and Puerto Rico and services to 20 Associations in 18 states and Puerto Rico.

Langford resigns from AgFirst board

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank Board Chairman John Langford has announced his resignation from the Board effective Friday, January 5.
 
Vice Chairman Curtis Hancock will immediately assume the role of chairman. Announcements regarding the process to fill the seat formerly held by Mr. Langford will be made in accordance with AgFirst’s bylaws after consultation with the Board.
 
Langford is a citrus grower and Realtor in Lakeland, Fla. He had served on the AgFirst board since 2012, and his current term was set to expire in December 2019.
 
“We were fortunate to benefit from John’s expertise and insight over the past six years,” AgFirst President and CEO Tim Amerson said. “We thank him for his dedicated service and wish him the best.”
 
Hancock, the incoming chairman, is a row crop farmer from Fulton, Ky. He earned a Bachelor of Science in agriculture from the University of Tennessee-Martin and a Master of Science in ag economics from the University of Tennessee. He has been a director on the AgFirst board since 2013. Hancock’s term is set to expire in December 2020.
 
“Our board will continue to be in good hands,” Amerson said. “Curtis is an experienced and knowledgeable farmer with leadership experience in a variety of trade organizations, as well as the national Farm Credit Council.”

AgFirst hires two senior executives

COLUMBIA, SC – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank in Columbia has hired two new senior officers, Will Brown and Sam Esfahani.

Brown is the bank's new chief credit officer. He previously worked at First Citizens Bank & Trust of North Carolina, where he was involved in the integration of the wholesale functions between First Citizens' North Carolina and South Carolina operations during their recent merger. Prior to the merger, Brown was the chief credit officer and executive vice president for First Citizens Bank of South Carolina. Brown replaces Chris Jones, who will retire in September.

Esfahani has been hired as AgFirst's chief information officer. He most recently served as a technology consultant to Danske Bank in Copenhagen, Denmark. Previously, Esfahani was chief information officer for PSCU, a St. Petersburg, Fla., organization that provides traditional and online financial services to credit unions throughout the United States. He replaces Ben Blakewood, who will retire later this year.

"Will and Sam were selected after an intense nationwide search with a top-tier executive recruitment firm," CEO Tim Amerson said. "We are pleased to welcome these talented and experienced professionals to AgFirst."

About AgFirst

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank is one of four banks that make up the nationwide Farm Credit System. Farm Credit has supported rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services for more than 100 years. AgFirst is a cooperative providing funding to 19 Associations in 15 states and Puerto Rico and services to 20 Associations in 18 states and Puerto Rico.