LEADER Fall/Winter 2026 | Volume 5 Issue 2
Lasting Legacies Three agriculture families whose dedication, hard work, and traditions continue to shape the future of farming for generations to come.
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When Family and Farming Grow Together
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Hunsberger Farms: Carrying the Land Forward
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Growing a Family Legacy at Highview Farms
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Where Service Meets Agriculture: How Farm Credit Supports Veteran Farmers
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Ag Biz Masters 12
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U A YOUNG, BEGINNING, OR SMALL FARMER?
R BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SKILLS WITH
AG BIZ MASTERS
Time to Take Care of You
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JANUARY - MARCH 2027
g approach with on-demand, eLearning modules and webinars.
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Horizon Farm Credit, ACA Thomas H. Truitt, Jr., CEO Board of Directors Michael S. Nelson, Chair Charles M. Wright IV, Vice Chair Julie Bolyard Brian L. Boyd Kevin D. Grim John Travis Hastings Laura M. Heilinger Monica Hepler Anthony M. Ill Sharon McClellan
Jay McGinnis Robert Messner, Jr. Carl Metzgar Samuel T. Parker Brian L. Reiff Jennifer L. Rhodes Paul Schmidt Richard D. Shuman David R. Smith Christine Waddell
QUESTIONS OR IDEAS If you have any questions or ideas for the editorial staff of the Leader, contact Becca Stoops at 888.339.3334, email her at bstoops@horizonfc.com or write her at Horizon Farm Credit | 300 Winding Creek Blvd | Mechanicsburg, PA 17050. This publication is for you, our reader. We’d love to hear from you! The Leader is published semi-annually for stockholders, friends and business associates. If you wish to no longer receive this publication, please email: bstoops@horizonfc.com. Use “Unsubscribe Leader” in the subject line. The Farm Credit Administration does not require the Association to distribute its quarterly financial reports to shareholders. However, copies of its complete report are available upon request or see quarterly updates online at horizonfc.com. The shareholders’ investment in the Association is materially affected by the financial condition and results of operations of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank and copies of its quarterly financial report are available upon request by writing: Susanne Caughman AgFirst Farm Credit Bank | P.O. Box 1499 | Columbia, SC 29202-1499 Address changes, questions or requests for the association’s quarterly financial report should be directed to Horizon Farm Credit, ACA, by calling 888.339.3334 or writing: Horizon Farm Credit | 300 Winding Creek Blvd | Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Lasting Legacies
Some of agriculture’s greatest strengths are passed down, not just learned. Throughout our footprint, multi-generational farm families are carrying forward traditions, values, and a commitment to stewardship that have sustained agriculture for decades. At the same time, they’re finding new ways to adapt, innovate, and prepare for what comes next. Their ability to balance legacy with progress is what keeps our industry moving forward. The farms featured in this edition of the Leader represent that balance well. Their stories demonstrate what’s possible when experience and fresh perspectives work together toward a common goal. From one generation to the next, knowledge is shared, challenges are met, and opportunities are created for the future. Strong family farms don’t happen by accident. They require hard work, planning, and a long-term commitment to the land and the people who depend on it. The families highlighted in these pages understand that responsibility and continue to build on the foundations laid by those who came before them. At Farm Credit, we’re proud to support farm families as they navigate growth, transition, and succession. These operations are an important part of rural communities, and their success helps ensure agriculture remains strong for generations to come. Their commitment to preserving the past while preparing for the future is something worth celebrating.
Dates IMPORTANT
November
11 Veterans Day, Offices Closed 20 Crop Insurance: Perennials Sales Closing 26-27 Thanksgiving, Offices Closed
December
1 Crop Insurance: Pasture, Rangeland & Forage Sales Closing 10 Crop Insurance: Last Day to File a Claim 24-25 Christmas, Offices Closed
January 2027
1 New Year’s Day, Offices Closed 18 Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Offices Closed
February
15 Crop Insurance: Green Pea Sales Closing 15 President’s Day, Offices Closed
March
15 Crop Insurance: Spring Sales Closing
Tom Truitt Chief Executive Officer
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Family and Farming WHEN
GROW TOGETHER
Story and photos by Maria Listman
Middletown, Delaware
At Emerson Farms, there’s always room at the table. For nearly 80 years, the Emerson family has built a life around the land in Middletown, Delaware. What began with Robert Emerson’s parents settling on the farm in 1943 has grown into a multigenerational operation where cows are milked, crops are grown, and family members still show up for one another every day. Robert grew up learning the work and rhythms of farm life alongside his family. When his father passed away, his mother carried on the operation with help from her children and son-in-law. Robert took over the farm in 1966 when his mother retired, later purchasing the 240-acre property from her. Today, that same land continues to be the heartbeat of the Emerson family. They milk between 180 and 200 cows and grow corn, soybeans, wheat, and barley. Some of those crops feed the cattle, while the rest is sold. The family has also sold its milk to the same company for 50 years, beginning with Atlantic Dairy Cooperative, which later became part of Land O’Lakes. Robert’s son, Lee, took on part of the daily operations and his son, Robbie, joined him. At 21, Robbie purchased his first farm, beginning another chapter in the family’s farming story. Farm Credit helped make that first step possible. The family continues to look for opportunities to keep farmland in production as development changes the landscape around them. About 5,000 acres surrounding the farm are under development, and much of the land the Emersons rent is being sold to developers. The acreage only tells part of the story. At Emerson Farms, the strength of the operation is in the family itself. Robert’s wife, Sarah, has been by his side for 62 years. Lee calls his mother the hardest worker on the farm. She’s outside milking cows before anyone else in the morning, then heads inside to prepare breakfast and lunch. By lunchtime, the table is full of family and farm workers.
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“We’ve been very blessed; this is the way we were raised,” Sarah said. Robert is up at 5:15 each morning feeding the cows and often works well into the evening, but he doesn’t do it alone. His sister, Nancy, keeps things moving with parts runs and grounds maintenance; his daughter, Beth, handles the bookkeeping; and his grandson, Parker, takes care of evening milking. Meanwhile, his daughters, Denise and Loraine, daughter-in-law Mandy, sons-in-law Shawn, John and Len, along with cousins and grandchildren, all step in wherever needed, making Emerson Farms a true family operation. “Dad and Mom-Mom usually milk every morning, Pop feeds the cows, and I come in and fill-in wherever is needed,” Robbie explained. The family has continued to grow the operation, now managing over 3,000 acres and have an ice cream stand next door to the farm. In 2024, they started a beef cattle program and heifer facility on an additional farm 20 miles south. They sell beef directly to consumers, with ground beef and filet among their popular offerings.
“Farming is not the easiest life. You don’t make a lot of money all the time, but it’s an enjoyable life when you’ve got your family." — Robert Emerson
Emerson Farms has been an integral part of the community for decades. When their dairy parlor burned to the ground in 2008, farmers rallied within hours to help relocate the Emersons’ cows while the family rebuilt. Today, the family leases cows to 4-H and FFA members, giving young people an opportunity to experience farm life firsthand. The Emersons have also adapted with the times, investing in irrigation, conservation practices, improved technology, and a new chemical barn designed to help prevent spills. Several family members remain involved in agricultural organizations and the broader farming community. In addition, there is already another generation growing up around it all. Robbie’s son, Bo, is part of the everyday life of the farm, surrounded by cows, fields, and family members who have made Emerson Farms what it is today. For the Emersons, the way they work together may be the most important tradition of all. “Not one of us takes the lead,” said Lee. “Anything we do is always discussed as a family to determine how we’re going to do it.” For Robert, that shared work is what makes farming worthwhile. “Working with family is the best thing,” Robert shared. “Farming is not the easiest life. You don’t make a lot of money all the time, but it’s an enjoyable life when you’ve got your family.”
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Carrying the Land Forward HUNSBERGER FARMS:
Story and photos by Maria Listman
Davidsville, PA
The land was once owned by Joseph Johns, an Amish settler who became the founder of Johnstown. His family farmed the property for six generations, and pieces of that history remain on the farm today. When Bill and Jeanette Hunsberger arrived in 1977, they were 22 years old and looking to build a life of their own. Bill grew up on a farm and knew from the age of five that he wanted to be a farmer. After high school, he worked as a DHIA milk test inspector, visiting farms throughout the region and learning from other farmers. Then he and Jeanette left for Somerset County. They rented the farm from Joseph Johns VI, who was 62 years old at the time. The young couple had found their farm, and Bill had found a mentor. In 1983, Bill and Jeanette purchased the property from Joseph and his wife, Mary. Nearly 50 years after first arriving, the Hunsberger’s are still farming that same land, while building out their own legacy. The farm began as a dairy long before the Hunsbergers arrived and they continued milking until 2013 when they transitioned from dairy to grain and beef cattle. Then, in April 2020, a fire destroyed the inactive dairy barn, marking another turning point as the family continued moving forward with its diversified operation. Today, the family farms over 2,000 acres, 800 of which is corn and the rest includes soybeans, wheat, and hay. In addition, they have a 150-head beef cattle operation that is primarily Angus.
The road to Hunsberger Farms winds through the mountains of Somerset County, Pennsylvania, climbing higher with every turn. At nearly 1,800 feet, the farm sits among rolling pastures and wideopen views that go on for miles. It’s a beautiful place to farm, and a place with tremendous history.
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The family grows crops for feed and off-farm sales, traveling as far as 200 miles throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia. They also provide custom planting and harvesting, operate an agricultural trucking business, and serve as Pioneer sales representatives selling seed to 75 farms in the area. Not to mention, they own Aerial Applications, an agricultural drone service for crop applications. The family's ability to diversify has helped the farm continue to evolve. As the next generation began finding their place, Bill and Jeanette never assumed their six children would want to take over. Bill encouraged them to work off the farm for at least a year to gain experience and make sure farming was what they really wanted.
“I told them, whenever you go out for a job, make sure you tell them you grew up on a farm because it’s a big plus,” said Bill.
there is no pressure for them to take over someday. For now, Nick and Reuben are focused on taking care of what’s in front of them.
Their sons, Nick and Reuben, ventured out and decided that farm life was the right fit for them. Two years ago, Nick and Reuben purchased the farm from their parents, becoming the second generation of Hunsbergers to own the land.
“We’re not looking to get bigger, but rather we want to do a better job of what we’re currently doing,” Reuben said.
“We’re only the second generation — it’s unique though because there aren’t a lot of people even in my dad’s generation that started farming on their own, and now even less,” Nick said. “To be able to do it is an accomplishment.”
There’s plenty of work for Nick and Reuben, but they have a sturdy foundation beneath them and a farm with extensive history to build upon.
Farm Credit has been part of the farm’s transition and continued growth, helping by providing financing for land, trucks, and equipment, as well as lines of credit and rural home loans. “Farm Credit is there when you need them,” Nick said. “The team has all of our history, so they’re able to move quickly when we need something.”
“We’re not looking to get bigger, but rather we want to do a better job of what we’re currently doing.” — Reuben Hunsberger Now, Bill is stepping back, giving his sons room to handle the business, make decisions, and learn from the experience of running the farm. In many ways, it mirrors the opportunity he had as a young farmer learning from Joseph. The family has also found a way to preserve another piece of the property's history. Jeanette operates Schantz Haus Bed & Breakfast, which has welcomed guests since 2002. “Schantz” is the Pennsylvania Dutch name for Johns, connecting the B&B to the family who farmed the property before the Hunsbergers. Bill and Jeanette live there, and she enjoys serving her guests a farm-style breakfast that includes oatmeal pancakes, baked apples, and sausage from their grandchildren’s pigs. Their grandchildren are already getting their own introduction to agriculture, selling sweet corn at the farm and raising livestock. But,
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Growing a Family Legacy AT HIGHVIEW FARMS
Story and photos by Maria Listman
Whiteford, MD In 1972, David and Carol Doran moved to Whiteford, Maryland. With no previous experience in agriculture, they took a chance and bought 30 acres and a small herd of beef cattle. What started from scratch has now become a 500-acre beef and crop farm with 120 head of Charolais and Charolais-influenced cattle spread across several farms. Their sons, Mike and Tom, grew up with the farm as part of everyday life. Both were involved in 4-H and FFA, but they eventually followed different paths. Mike remained closely connected to the cattle operation, taking on more responsibility over the years. Meanwhile, Tom went to the U.S. Naval Academy and became a Navy pilot. He has since retired and started his own farm with his wife, Jessica, where they help raise some of the family’s cattle. Today, three generations are actively working the farm, while the fourth is already growing up around it. Mike and his wife, Diane, are an integral part of the operation, as are their children, Zach and Kimmi. Zach oversees the crops, which includes soybeans, corn, and hay. The family works hard to grow their own feed, with some of the hay being sold off the farm. Kimmi has taken a direct path into agriculture and serves the community beyond the farm. After participating in an agriculture program in high school, she earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Kansas State University. She now serves as the Agriculture Specialist for Harford County Government and is involved with several agricultural boards.
One mile from the Pennsylvania line sits a farm called Highview, where American flags greet you down the long driveway. For more than five decades, it’s been the place for family and farming to grow together.
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Mike is equally involved in supporting local agriculture. He serves as president of the Harford County Farm Bureau and is co-chair of the Harford County Fair Board, along with serving on several other boards. It’s a family tradition to be of service beyond the farm and contribute to the place they call home. As the operation has grown, the family has turned to Farm Credit for equipment financing, a rural home mortgage, and a short-term loan for a new cattle building. “We couldn’t have done it without them,” Mike said. “A lot of the equipment we buy is through Farm Credit.”
But for Mike, growth has never been simply about adding acres or cattle. It’s about making sure the farm can continue for the people who come next. The fourth generation is still very young, but they’re already growing up riding around the farm and helping feed cattle. The family is excited to see what the next generation will do, and are already excited about future 4-H projects. “I hope they want to farm,” said Zach. “It’s a good thing. It gives you a reason to work as hard as we do.” The farm’s connection to the community has grown right along with the family. Just a few years ago, Highview Farms primarily sold whole and half cattle. However, 2020 marked a change when customers began reaching out for beef and the family responded by opening a farm market.
“This legacy that we’re leaving — that’s what’s special to us. To see the family and all of them involved in agriculture, it’s beautiful.” — Carol Doran
Diane runs the market with Carol, where customer service is at the heart of what they do. Carol knows customers by name, takes time to talk with them about their families and what is happening in their lives. “The store is my main interest, and I love my customers,” Carol smiled. “They come from all over, and the business has really grown through word of mouth.” The market also gives the family an opportunity to support other local producers by offering products such as eggs and ice cream alongside their own beef. Kimmi sees that spirit of collaboration throughout Harford County’s agricultural community. “Harford County is really high on the buy local chain,” she explained. “There’s over 40 direct-to-consumer markets here. We all feed off of each other.” For the family, the goal is not simply to preserve what David and Carol started more than 50 years ago, but to keep building upon it. “We want to be able to keep growing so we can keep feeding our community,” Kimmi said. For Carol, seeing all of them involved in agriculture is the most meaningful part of what the family has built. “This legacy that we’re leaving — that’s what’s special to us,” she said. “To see the family and all of them involved in agriculture, it’s beautiful."
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Where Service Meets Agriculture HOW FARM CREDIT SUPPORTS VETERAN FARMERS
By Mitch Freeman, Executive Ag Relationship Manager and CPT, U.S. Army
For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life often begins with a simple question, “What's next?” For a growing number of veterans, the answer is agriculture. Farming provides an opportunity to continue serving a purpose larger than yourself. Instead of serving a military mission, veterans are serving their communities by producing food, caring for the land, supporting rural economies, and helping ensure the future of American agriculture. It is a career path that demands resilience, adaptability, leadership, and a strong work ethic, all qualities that are deeply ingrained through military service. As an Ag Relationship Manager with Farm Credit and a Captain in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, I've had the privilege of seeing this connection firsthand. Every day, I work with farmers across our footprint, and many of the characteristics that define successful military leaders are the same qualities I see in successful agricultural producers. Both professions require a willingness to solve problems in uncertain environments, make difficult decisions with limited information, and remain committed to long-term goals despite challenges and setbacks. Whether you're leading soldiers during a training exercise or managing a farming operation through fluctuating markets and
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unpredictable weather, success often comes down to preparation, adaptability, and perseverance. My military experience has shaped the way I approach agriculture, lending, and leadership. Serving in the Army has taught me to remain missionfocused, embrace continual learning, and lead through challenging circumstances. Those same lessons carry into my work at Farm Credit, whether I'm helping a beginning farmer develop a business plan, assisting a family operation through expansion, or connecting a veteran producer with resources that can help move their operation forward. At Farm Credit, we recognize that many veterans bring tremendous leadership experience and determination to agriculture, but like any beginning farmer, they may face challenges accessing capital, building equity, or navigating the business side of farming. That's why supporting veteran farmers goes beyond simply providing loans. It's about investing in people and helping them build a foundation for long-term success.
Helping Veteran Farmers Access Capital Access to financing is often one of the biggest barriers facing new and growing producers. Purchasing land, equipment, livestock, or infrastructure requires significant investment, and many veterans enter agriculture without the generational assets or established equity that have traditionally supported farm ownership. Through Farm Credit's Grow Ahead Program, eligible young, beginning, and veteran farmers can access financing specifically designed to help them get started or continue growing their operation. The program offers discounted pricing, reduced fees, flexible loan structures, and underwriting considerations that recognize the unique challenges
many beginning producers face. Grow Ahead was created to help remove barriers and provide opportunities for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Whether a veteran is purchasing their first piece of farmland, building livestock facilities, investing in equipment, or expanding an existing enterprise, having access to the right financial partner can make a significant difference. To learn more about Grow Ahead, visit horizonfc.com/beginningfarmer-loans.
More than Financing While capital is important, successful farming requires much more than a loan. Many veteran farmers are building businesses while learning marketing, financial management, risk management, tax planning, and operational decision-making. Agriculture is both a lifestyle and a business, and developing strong business skills is critical to long-term success.
Farming Network, I've seen the power of connecting veterans with fellow producers, mentors, educational partners, and agricultural service providers. Farming can sometimes feel isolating, especially for those entering the industry without a family farming background. Having a strong network often makes the difference between simply getting started and building a thriving operation.
That's why Farm Credit provides educational opportunities such as Ag Biz Basics and Ag Biz Masters, programs designed to strengthen participants' understanding of farm financials, business planning, profitability, and management. These programs help producers build confidence in their decision-making while connecting them with other farmers and industry professionals.
Farm Credit works to connect veteran farmers with organizations, educational opportunities, technical assistance programs, and industry partners throughout our footprint. We also maintain state-specific resource guides that help producers identify organizations and programs available within their communities.
Relationships are equally important. Throughout my involvement with farmer veteran organizations, including the Pennsylvania Veteran
To learn more about Ag Biz Basics, Ag Biz Masters, and other veteran farmer resources, visit horizonfc.com/learningcenter.
A Shared Commitment to Service Veterans understand what it means to answer a call to serve. For many, that commitment doesn't end when military service concludes. Instead, it evolves. Agriculture offers another avenue of service, one that provides food, strengthens local economies, preserves agricultural land, and supports future generations. As both a soldier and a farmer, I've come to appreciate how closely these worlds are connected. The values that contribute to success in the military, integrity, selfless service, resilience, accountability, and commitment, are often the same values that help farmers succeed. Across Farm Credit's footprint, veteran farmers are building businesses, supporting their communities, creating opportunities for others, and
helping shape the future of agriculture. Their stories are reminders that service takes many forms. This Veterans Day, we honor those who have worn our nation's uniform and those who continue serving through agriculture. At Farm Credit, we are proud to stand alongside veteran farmers by providing the financing, education, resources, and relationships they need to succeed in their next mission. If you're a veteran interested in starting, growing, or strengthening your agricultural operation, connect with our team at 888.339.3334 or visit horizonfc.com.
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ARE YOU A YOUNG, BEGINNING, OR SMALL FARMER? AREYOUR YOUBUSINESS A YOUNG, BEGINNING, OR SMALL FARMER? GROW AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SKILLS WITH GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SKILLS WITH
AG BIZ MASTERS AG BIZ MASTERS
JANUARY - MARCH 2027 JANUARY - MARCH 2027modules and webinars. Blended learning approach with on-demand, eLearning Blended learning approach with on-demand, eLearning modules and webinars.
11 Megatrends in Agriculture
YEAR YEAR
Megatrends in Agriculture Strategic Business Planning Strategic Business Planning Preparing Information for Your Lender Preparing Information for Your Lender Constructing a Balance Sheet Constructing a Balance Sheet Constructing an Income Constructing an Income Statement & Cash Flow Projection Statement & Cash Flow Projection
22 Understanding Lending Decisions
YEAR YEAR
Understanding Lending Decisions Farm Business Management Factors Farm Business Management Factors & Benchmarks & Benchmarks Growth & Transition Management Growth & Transition Management Personal Financial Management Personal Financial Management Communications, Ethics & Leadership Communications, Ethics & Leadership
ENROLLMENT RUNS FROM OCTOBER 19 THROUGH DECEMBER 14, 2026 ENROLLMENT RUNS FROM OCTOBER 19 THROUGH DECEMBER 14, 2026
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TIME TO TAKE CARE OF YOU Life on the farm never slows down. Between long days in the fields and keeping up with family, it’s easy to put yourself last. But, making time for your own well-being is just as important as everything else on your plate, especially during this busy holiday season. With our Member Assistance Program, you — and anyone in your household — can utilize benefits ranging from counseling to legal services, adoption resources, retirement coaching and more. All of these services can be used on demand, anonymous, and free.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR MEMBER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM When you take care of yourself, you’re investing in the future of your farm and your family. These services are here to help, whenever you need them. To learn more, call 800.968.8143.
PURSUING A CAREER IN AG? APPLY FOR $10,000 TODAY. Scholarship applications due January 8, 2027 Sholarship due January 8, 2027 Visitapplications FCFoundationForAg.org Visit FCFoundationForAg.org
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