LEADER
AG CREDIT FEATURES
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Customer Referral Program
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Online Banking Portal
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LOCATIONS
LEADER
is published quarterly for stockholders, directors, business associates and friends of Central Kentucky Ag Credit.
PRESIDENT AND CEO
Jonathan Noe
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Alvin Lyons
Jim Rankin, III
Joe Myers, Chairman
Lee Blandford, Vice Chairman
Patrick Higginbotham
Mary-Lynn Hinkel
Dan Grigson
EDITOR
Cassie Johnson, Marketing Coordinator
Shelby Terrell, Marketing Assistant
PUBLISHER
AgFirst Farm Credit Bank
DESIGNERS
Lynette Alcorn
Joey Ayer
Gwen Carroll
Jessica Deas
Phereby Derrick
Jonathan Mashack
PRINTER
Professional Printers LLC
COVER PHOTO CREDIT
SaraVard Von Gruenigen
ADDRESS CHANGE
Address changes, questions, comments and requests to cancel your free subscription to the Ag Credit Leader should be sent to Central Kentucky Agricultural Credit Association by calling 859.253.3249 or mailing to PO Box, 4100 Lexington, KY 40544-4100.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The Farm Credit Administration does not require the association to distribute its quarterly financial reports to stockholders. Copies of the association’s annual and quarterly reports are available upon request free of charge by calling 859.253.3249 or writing to Thomas Whitaker, Chief Financial Officer, Central Kentucky Ag Credit, PO Box, 4100 Lexington, KY 40544-4100, or at AgCreditOnline.com
PRIVACY POLICY
Your online privacy is always a top concern at Ag Credit. For a complete copy of the latest version of the online privacy policy, please visit our website and click on the home page link.
NMLS#604727
Investing in Youth
Celebrating Success at the 2025 Kentucky State Fair
Grace Gayheart COO Promotion
Brad Godbey Regional Lending Manager Promotion
Lisa Adams Executive Assistant and
Corporate Secretary Promotion
Dan Grigson Receives Meritorious Service Award
Recognition of Service
New Employees
Ag Credit Thanks Summer Interns Kamryn Olds and Weston Wolf
Ag Credit Attends Blue & Gold Gala
Celebrating Success at the Ag Credit Fall Roundup
Outstanding In Their Field: Ben VanHook
Frankfort Open House
Harrison County Farm Bureau Ham Auction
Growing Together: How SeedLeaf and Headwater Farm Are Cultivating a Healthier Lexington
54th Annual Central Kentucky Antique Tractor Show 4 6 8 9 10 11 12 14 16 17 18 20
INVESTING IN YOUTH
At Central Kentucky Ag Credit, the future of agriculture is not just a vision—it’s a commitment. Recognizing that today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders in farming and agribusiness, we proudly support organizations such as 4-H and FFA, which play a vital role in shaping the next generation of agricultural innovators.
This year, Ag Credit demonstrated its support by actively participating in 15 county youth livestock sales and ham auctions, providing financial contributions and encouragement to young farmers as they showcased their dedication and hard work. These events are more than just transactions—they serve as meaningful opportunities to
develop skills, foster growth, and build confidence in our future agricultural leaders.
Our commitment is deeply personal. Many members of the Ag Credit team are former 4-H and FFA participants, and their firsthand experiences with these transformative programs fuel a strong passion for giving back and investing in youth development.
By supporting youth initiatives, Central Kentucky Ag Credit is helping young people achieve their goals while cultivating a vibrant, resilient agricultural community for generations to come.
CELEBRATING SUCCESS AT THE 2025 KENTUCKY STATE FAIR
The 2025 Kentucky State Fair once again served as a dynamic showcase of the state’s agricultural heritage, honoring the dedication, passion, and resilience of Kentucky’s farming community. Central Kentucky Ag Credit was proud to sponsor Walton Webcasting and the Junior Market Supreme Drive, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of Kentucky’s agricultural leaders.
For Kentucky’s youth in agriculture, the State Fair represents the culmination of months—or even years— of hard work and preparation. From early mornings in the barn to late nights refining their projects, these young exhibitors bring their efforts to life in the show ring. Beyond competition, these experiences foster responsibility, skill development, and a deep-rooted dedication to the future of agriculture.
Central Kentucky Ag Credit is honored to stand alongside these junior exhibitors as they pursue their agricultural aspirations. We believe these formative experiences lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning, personal growth, and success within the agricultural industry.
Congratulations to all participants in this year’s Kentucky State Fair. Your achievements reflect the bright future of Kentucky agriculture, and Central Kentucky Ag Credit is proud to support your journey—celebrating your successes and investing in your continued growth.
GRACE GAYHEART COO PROMOTION
Central Kentucky Ag Credit is proud to announce the promotion of Grace Gayheart to Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This milestone marks a significant achievement in Grace’s career, which began with Ag Credit in 2012 when she joined the Lexington Branch as a Loan Assistant.
While working full-time, she took advantage of the Educational Assistance Program offered by Ag Credit to pursue higher education. She earned her Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and eventually her Master’s degrees from Midway University, balancing academic work with her professional and personal responsibilities.
Her dedication and expanding skill set propelled her through a series of roles within the organization. After serving as a Credit Administrative Assistant, she transitioned into the role of Business Analyst, where she helped streamline operations and improve decision-making processes. Her leadership and project management capabilities were further recognized when she was promoted to Project Manager.
Now, as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Grace brings a wealth of experience, institutional knowledge, and a passion for agricultural finance to the executive team. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Business Administration and Organizational Leadership at the University of the Cumberlands, further demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and leadership development.
Grace resides in Versailles, Kentucky with her husband Brad and their two sons, Harley (19) and Beau (5). Her journey from entry-level to executive leadership is a testament to perseverance, professional growth, and the power of investing in people.
BRAD GODBEY REGIONAL LENDING MANAGER PROMOTION
Central Kentucky Ag Credit continues to evolve, with steady growth in loan volume and significant advancements in technology. In response to these developments, we have periodically refined our staffing structure to better serve our members.
We are pleased to announce that Brad Godbey has been appointed as the Regional Lending Manager for the Danville and Stanford branches. This promotion represents a meaningful milestone in Brad’s career, which began in 2002 when he joined the Danville Branch as a Loan Officer.
Throughout his tenure, Brad has demonstrated unwavering commitment to Ag Credit and its mission. His deep connection to the community and collaborative spirit have shaped his approach to leadership and service. Brad’s dedication to helping members achieve their goals has been a driving force behind his success.
When asked about advice for future loan officers, Brad emphasizes the importance of product knowledge, relationship building, and a strong focus on customer service.
LISA ADAMS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT AND CORPORATE SECRETARY PROMOTION
Lisa began her career with Ag Credit in August 2016 as a Loan Assistant at the Lexington branch, where she quickly developed a strong appreciation for the organization’s mission and the communities it serves. In January 2019, she transitioned to the Administrative Office as an Administrative Assistant—a role that allowed her to support leadership more directly and gain a broader perspective on operations. In July 2025, Lisa was honored to be promoted to Executive Assistant and Corporate Secretary, a position that reflects both her professional growth and the trust placed in her by the leadership team.
What Lisa values most about working at Ag Credit is the opportunity to serve as a steady, behind-the-scenes partner in helping the organization operate smoothly and with purpose. She thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys the variety in her work, and deeply appreciates the relationships she’s built along the way. Each day, she’s reminded that her efforts contribute to something greater—supporting rural communities, agricultural families, and a legacy of service she’s proud to uphold.
Originally from California, Lisa relocated to Kentucky in 2001—and yes, people still find it amusing that a city girl ended up working for an agricultural lender! They say her Kentucky accent fits right in. She’s been married to her husband, Jason, for 22 years, and they’re proud parents of 18-year-old triplets: Preston, Paige, and Presleigh. The trio just began their first semester of college, with two attending Western Kentucky University (Go Toppers) and the University of Kentucky (Go Cats). As for Lisa, she’s embracing this new chapter as an almost empty nester with gratitude and excitement.
DAN GRIGSON RECEIVES MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARD
Board member, Dan Grigson has been honored with the Award for Meritorious Service by the American Jersey Cattle Association and National All-Jersey Inc. With deep roots in agriculture, Grigson’s lifelong dedication to farming, his community, and his family reflects a legacy of purpose and leadership. His commitment continues to inspire those around him and strengthen the agricultural community he has served so faithfully. Central Kentucky Ag Credit is proud to showcase Dan and his commitment to agriculture. He is a true asset to the association.
RECOGNITION OF SERVICE
Shelby Wade Kirby Loan Officer — Paris
5 YEARS 10 YEARS 20 YEARS
Jeremy Parker Mortgage Loan Originator
Chris Cooper Sr. Loan Officer — Richmond
Bud Burdette Appraiser
Caleb Sadler Sr. Loan Officer — Paris
35 YEARS
Susan Mattingly Loan Assistant — Lebanon
Chuck Canter Sr. Loan Officer — Lexington
Shane Turner Chief Risk Officer and Regional Lending Manager
NEW EMPLOYEES
Central Kentucky Ag Credit is proud to welcome four new team members across our region. This exciting growth reflects our ongoing commitment to serving our members with excellence and expanding our ability to meet your needs.
TERA ROBERTS Loan Officer Trainee — FRANKFORT
Tera was raised in Frankfort, Kentucky, on his family’s cow-calf farm. He earned a degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Kentucky, with minors in Business and History. Prior to joining our team, he served as the Loan Programs Manager at the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation. Tera and his wife, Emma, proudly call Frankfort their forever home.
SAM GIBSON Loan Officer Trainee — LEXINGTON
Sam was born and raised in Danville, Kentucky, where his family operated a fourth-generation Angus cow-calf operation and hay production farm. Growing up in an agricultural environment instilled in him a deep appreciation for hard work, sustainability, and rural community values. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management as well as a degree in Marketing at the University of Kentucky. Sam brings a unique blend of agricultural heritage and business skills.
CLAY FURNISH Loan Officer Trainee — PARIS
Clay was raised in Cynthiana, Kentucky, where he grew up working on his family’s farm specializing in beef cattle, tobacco, and hay production. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business from Eastern Kentucky University. Outside of work, Clay enjoys spending time farming, hunting, and watching sports.
EMILY MURPHY Loan Officer Trainee — DANVILLE
Emily currently resides in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. She is a graduate of Campbellsville University, where she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. Emily brings valuable expertise in community engagement to her role, demonstrated through her active participation in both the Kentucky State 4-H and Mercer County 4-H programs.
AG CREDIT THANKS SUMMER INTERNS KAMRYN OLDS AND WESTON WOLF
This summer, Ag Credit was fortunate to welcome two talented interns, Kamryn Olds and Weston Wolf, to our team.
Kamryn Olds, a native of Richmond, Kentucky, is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Economics at Eastern Kentucky University. Kamryn brings a passion for agriculture and leadership to the table. These skills, along with her rural Kentucky roots, will undoubtedly benefit her future career.
Weston Wolf, from Alexandria, Kentucky, is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Economics with a
minor in Animal Science and Agriculture Business at the University of Kentucky. Weston’s experience with cattle and crop combined demonstrates his deep connection to agriculture.
VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS
Kamryn and Weston were instrumental in several projects throughout the summer. They facilitated podcasts for Beyond Agriculture, assisted with social media content creation, and actively participated in local events. Their hard work and dedication were greatly appreciated by the entire Ag Credit team.
AG CREDIT ATTENDS BLUE & GOLD GALA
Several of our team members recently had the honor of attending Kentucky FFA’s prestigious Blue and Gold Gala—an inspiring annual event that plays a pivotal role in fundraising for the Kentucky FFA Foundation. The Foundation’s mission to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders was front and center throughout the evening.
The Gala gathered a remarkable community of individuals united by their passion for agriculture’s future. It offered Ag Credit a meaningful opportunity to showcase our steadfast support for young farmers and ranchers across the state.
Guests enjoyed an elegant dinner, lively dancing, and a celebratory atmosphere—all while contributing to a cause that cultivates leadership, education, and growth in agricultural communities.
Kamryn Olds Weston Wolf
Pictured from left: Regional Lending Manager, Justin Craig (wife Laura), President & Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Noe (wife Keri), Executive Assistant Lisa Adams, VP & Chief Lending Officer Richard Medley (wife Mollie), Board Chairman Joe Myers (wife Toni), and VP & Chief Operating Officer Grace Gayheart
CELEBRATING SUCCESS AT THE AG CREDIT FALL ROUNDUP
The 2025 Ag Credit Fall Roundup was held this September in Harrodsburg, showcasing the talent and hard work of Kentucky’s junior livestock exhibitors. This year, 41 junior exhibitors from across the state brought 62 head of cattle to compete, with judging expertly conducted by Dawson Osbourn of Lynchburg, OH.
A successful event of this scale is no small feat, and we are fortunate to have a dedicated team that ensures everything runs smoothly. A special thank you goes to our show committee, Cassie Johnson, Caleb Sadler, Joe
Goggin, Ben VanHook, Shelby Terrell, Olivia Randolph, Billy Cameron, Charity Moore, and Ryan Reeves.
We also extend our gratitude to all of this year’s volunteers, including Lisa Adams and Brad Godbey— whose time and effort were invaluable to the event’s success.
Congratulations to all the exhibitors for their outstanding efforts, and we hope to see everyone return for another great show on the second Saturday in September 2026!
Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Josie Phillips
Grand Champion Bred and Owned Bull Exhibited by Maddie Ethington
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned Bull Exhibited by Kelsey Whaley
Reserve Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Samantha Pecco
Not Pictured was the Grand Champion Prospect Market Animal Exhibited by AnnLawrence Allen
Grand Champion Novice Showman Addison Allen and Reserve Champion Katie Whaley
Grand Champion Intermediate Showman JJ Jackson and Reserve Champion Intermediate Showman Ashlyn Popp
5th Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Josie Phillips
3rd Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Ashlyn Popp
4th Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Hailey Johnson
Reserve Champion Prospect Market Animal Exhibited by Abby Scruggs
Grand Champion Junior Showman AnnLawrence Allen and Reserve Champion Junior Noah Adams
Grand Champion Senior Showman Danielle Taylor and Reserve Champion Senior Showman Samantha Pecco
OUTSTANDING IN THEIR FIELD
BEN VANHOOK
WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
I spent my childhood growing up in Cynthiana, Kentucky.
DID YOU GROW UP ON A FARM?
I was raised on my family’s crop farm and commercial cow-calf operation, where we background our homeraised cattle and sell commercial bred heifers directly off the farm. We currently manage approximately 350 acres in Cynthiana, Kentucky.
WHERE DID YOU GO TO COLLEGE?
I earned my degree in Agricultural Economics with a minor in Agricultural Business from the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, graduating in 2022. While at UK, I contributed to tobacco and hemp research on the Spindletop Farm.
WERE YOU INVOLVED WITH ANY CLUBS/TEAMS GROWING UP?
Growing up, I devoted most of my time to life on the farm, where hard work and long days were the norm.
Outside of farming, I stayed active by playing football and baseball.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT YOURSELF.
In my free time, I love attending UK football and basketball games. I’ve always found joy in spending time at the lake and sharing good moments with friends and family. I’m an outdoor enthusiast and hunt whenever I get the chance. Above all, I especially cherish the time I spend with my niece and nephew.
FAVORITE PART OF BEING AN AG CREDIT LOAN OFFICER?
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a loan officer is the opportunity to help customers grow and achieve their goals. Whether it’s expanding their farm operations, investing in cattle, acquiring additional real estate, or upgrading equipment, I take pride in being a part of their journey. Supporting agricultural communities and helping individuals build something meaningful with their land and livestock is what drives me every day.
FRANKFORT OPEN HOUSE
In August, Central Kentucky Ag Credit proudly celebrated the opening of its new Frankfort office. To mark the occasion, staff hosted an open house, warmly welcoming customers to explore the new space. The
HARRISON COUNTY FARM BUREAU HAM AUCTION
Harrison County Farm Bureau has hosted the Harrison County Country Ham Breakfast for the past 6 years. Central Kentucky Ag Credit has been attending since the start. This year, Loan Officer Ben VanHook and Loan Officer Olivia Randolph attended the breakfast.
event was highlighted by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, graciously presented by the Anderson County Chamber of Commerce.
GROWING TOGETHER: HOW SEEDLEAF AND HEADWATER FARM ARE CULTIVATING A HEALTHIER LEXINGTON
In the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, where rolling pastures meet city blocks, a quiet revolution in community agriculture is taking root. SeedLeaf, a nonprofit based in Lexington, is leading the charge— reimagining how food is grown, shared, and valued. Through its network of urban gardens and its newest venture, Headwater Farm, SeedLeaf is proving that small-scale growers are not just essential—they’re transformative.
WHY SMALL-SCALE GROWERS MATTER MORE THAN EVER
In an age of industrial agriculture and global supply chains, small-scale growers offer something irreplaceable: resilience, diversity, and community connection. They preserve heirloom varieties, adapt quickly to changing climates, and foster local economies. SeedLeaf’s support of these growers—through training, land access, and community engagement—ensures that Lexington’s food system remains rooted in people, not just profit.
LEXINGTON’S RURAL–URBAN TAPESTRY
Lexington is uniquely positioned at the intersection of rural heritage and urban innovation. Horse farms and hay fields stretch just beyond the city’s edge, while downtown neighborhoods buzz with farmers markets and community gardens. SeedLeaf bridges this divide, inviting urban residents to engage with agricultural practices and rural landscapes. Headwater Farm, located in North Fayette County near I-64, is a living example of this connection—bringing city dwellers onto farmland and rural wisdom into urban conversations.
HEADWATER FARM: A LIVING EXTENSION OF SEEDLEAF’S MISSION
Spanning 30 acres of preserved farmland, Headwater Farm is more than a production site—it’s a classroom, a gathering space, and a symbol of possibility. Volunteers and visitors learn to seed, weed, harvest, and steward the land under the guidance of farm manager H.P. Lovelace. From greenhouse seedlings to orchard
maintenance, every task is an invitation to participate in the cycle of nourishment.
This farm is an extension of SeedLeaf’s core mission: to nourish communities through growing and sharing food. It complements the organization’s tin free, youpick urban gardens by offering deeper engagement with sustainable farming practices and rural ecology. Whether hosting school field trips or community workdays, Headwater Farm cultivates not just crops— but connection.
BALANCING STEWARDSHIP AND PRODUCTION
SeedLeaf’s approach to farming is grounded in environmental responsibility. At Headwater Farm, practices like cover cropping, composting, and
agroforestry reflect a commitment to soil health and biodiversity. But stewardship doesn’t mean sacrificing productivity. Instead, it means growing smarter—using regenerative techniques that yield abundant harvests while preserving the land for future generations.
A SHARED FUTURE, ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
SeedLeaf’s work reminds us that food is more than sustenance—it’s a shared experience, a cultural thread, and a tool for justice. By supporting small-scale growers, fostering rural-urban dialogue, and modeling sustainable farming, SeedLeaf and Headwater Farm are cultivating a future where everyone has access to fresh, healthy food—and a place in the story of how it’s grown.
54TH ANNUAL CENTRAL KENTUCKY ANTIQUE TRACTOR SHOW
Central Kentucky Ag Credit had the honor of attending the 54th Annual Central Kentucky Antique Machinery Association Show, held in Paris, Kentucky. The exhibition showcased a remarkable total of 606 pieces of machinery, including 486 tractors and 55 classic automobiles and trucks. Throughout the course of the event, we had the privilege of engaging with attendees and conducting a bucket giveaway. We extend our congratulations to Dillon Tucker, the recipient of this giveaway prize.
Mercer County- Monday March 2 , 2026 nd Fayette County- Tuesday March 3 , 2026 rd
This six-week course that is a discussion-based workshop bringing women together to learn from experts in production, financial management, human resources, marketing, and the legal field. Each session offers time for questions, sharing, reacting and connecting with presenters and fellow participants
Follow our social media pages to stay tuned for more information and registration information
Legal
Pictured Above
INSURANCE PROTECTION AGAINST LOSS IS JUST GOOD BUSINESS
Central Kentucky Agricultural Credit Association loan agreements stipulate that borrowers obtain and maintain insurance on property that is pledged as security for loans, with the Association named as mortgagee or loss payee.
This notice is a reminder that the minimum amount of coverage required to be maintained is the lesser of your loan balances, the actual cash value of the property, the replacement cost of the property or the amount stipulated by your loan agreement. Since the amount required could be less than the value of the property that is insured, you are encouraged to consider higher limits where applicable to adequately protect your equity interest in the property.
If the property securing your loan consists of improved real estate, unless otherwise advised, at a minimum your policy must insure against the following perils: fire and lightning, wind, hail, aircraft or vehicle damage, riot or civil commotion, explosion, smoke damage, water damage (other than flood), falling objects, weight of snow, ice or sleet and vandalism. Loss of damage from flooding is also required if your loan was made after October 4, 1996, and at the time the loan was made the property was located in a government mandated Special Flood Hazard Area and flood insurance was available.
Central Kentucky Ag Credit PO Box 4100 Lexington, KY 40504
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