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Three young farmers from central and southern Illinois are being recognized for their leadership and growth in agriculture through Farm Credit Illinois’ FreshRoots Directors Cup program.

Honorees this year include Bryce Brockelsby of Christian County, Brandon Cummins of Massac County, and Thomas Perkins of Effingham County.

The Directors Cup, presented by the Farm Credit Illinois board of directors, recognizes young and beginning farmers who demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning, personal growth, and strengthening both their farm operations and rural communities. Each honoree will receive a $5,000 award, a commemorative keepsake, and formal recognition at a board dinner scheduled for Wednesday, August 19.

Bryce Brockelsby began farming in 2017 and became a full-time co-owner and manager of his family’s operation in 2019. He farms corn and soybeans, provides custom farming services, and also operates an excavation business. Brockelsby says being selected for the Directors Cup is a meaningful recognition that gives him perspective on his accomplishments in agriculture.

Brandon Cummins began his farming operation in 2016 and now operates as a sole owner, raising corn, soybeans, and wheat. He says building his farm from the ground up has been challenging, and credits Farm Credit Illinois for providing support and guidance in areas of the business beyond day-to-day operations.

Thomas Perkins started farming in 2016 as his family transitioned the operation from his grandfather. He works part-time on the farm and also serves as an operations manager for a local cooperative. He raises corn, soybeans, wheat, and hay, and says the program challenged him to think about long-term goals for his operation.

Farm Credit Illinois officials say the award recipients were chosen based on their farming backgrounds, business goals, and vision for the future of agriculture.

Profiles of each Directors Cup honoree can be found at www.farmcreditIL.com/directorscup.

Pictured below are the three honoree's: