Farm Credit honors three young farmers

Three young farmers from central and southern Illinois were named FreshRoots Directors Cup honorees by Farm Credit Illinois: Brandon Cummins of Brookport, Bryce Brockelsby of Edinburg, and Thomas Perkins of Effingham.

The Directors Cup presented by the cooperative’s board of directors celebrates young and beginning farmers committed to continuous learning and intentional living for a brighter future for their farm family business and community. Honorees will receive $5,000, a commemorative keepsake, and recognition from the Association’s board at a dinner on Wednesday, Aug. 19.

Brandon Cummins of Brookport (Massac County) launched his farming operation in 2016 and has successfully built and grown the business as its sole owner and operator. He currently raises corn, soybeans, and wheat.

“Building my farm from scratch has been challenging, but Farm Credit Illinois partnered with me like a friend, providing knowledge and support in areas of the business I don’t always think about,” says Brandon.

Bryce Brockelsby of Edinburg (Christian County) began farming in 2017 as a tenant for a local landowner and became a full-time co-owner and manager of his family’s farming operation in 2019. Bryce raises corn and soybeans, provides custom farming services, and operates an excavation business.

“I’m not one to take credit for my work, so being recognized with the FreshRoots Directors Cup is rewarding. It makes me reflect on my farming career and see it as a real accomplishment,” says Bryce.

Thomas Perkins of Effingham (Effingham County) began farming in 2016 as his grandfather transitioned out of the family farm. Thomas works on the farm part-time as well as off the farm as the operations manager for a local cooperative. He raises corn, soybeans, wheat, and hay.

“I couldn’t have grown my operation without Farm Credit Illinois. The FreshRoots Directors Cup challenged me to think about where I want to be in 10 years, and I look forward to continuing growth in years to come,” says Thomas.

Cooperative members were selected by a panel of seven industry representatives including one FCI board member based on a combination of each applicant’s unique farm beginnings, personal and business aspirations, and vision for their farm business and community.

“Investing in Helping the Next Generation of Farm Families Succeed is a top priority for our cooperative’s mission,” says Adam Brown, FCI Board Chair and Macon County farmer. “The Board of Directors is proud to recognize these young leaders for their commitment to lifelong learning and intentional living as they strive towards a brighter future.”