2025 Annual Conference
Register NOW!
“Standing on the Shoulders of Giants”
July 23 - 25, 2025
Click on the link above to register!
DEADLINE to Register is July 7, 2025
Hilton Lexington Downtown
Lexington, Kentucky
Please book by Tuesday, July 1, 2025
We look forward to welcoming you to a dynamic atmosphere where ideas flourish and partnerships are formed. Stay tuned for more information on speakers and events!
Join Us for an Unforgettable Conference Experience!
We are excited to announce our upcoming conference, where industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts will gather for a series of engaging discussions and networking opportunities. Mark your calendars for July 23 - 25 and get ready to connect, learn, and share insights!
What to Expect
From committee meetings to keynote addresses, our agenda is packed with valuable sessions designed to enrich your understanding of current trends and future directions in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, there’s something for everyone.
Join us for special events, including a reception and poster exhibit, where you can mingle with fellow attendees and exhibitors. Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this vibrant community!
Conference Details
Wednesday, July 23
All committee meetings are open to anyone with an interest.
| 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM | Committee Meetings |
| 6:00 PM | Reception (cash bar) and poster exhibit |
Thursday, July 24
| 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM | Opening Remarks Jonathan Shepherd and Dr. Laura Stephenson, Dean of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture Food and Environment (invited) |
| 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM | Overview of KY Agriculture Dr. Will Snell, Extension Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Kentucky |
| 9:30 AM - 10:15 AM | Kentucky Bourbon Industry Dr. Seth Debolt, Director Jame E Beam Institute, University of Kentucky |
| 10:15 AM - Noon | Panel Discussion - Founding Members/Early Participants of the Council Dr. Dave Kohl, Steve Hofing, Freddie Barnard, John Crowgey, Don Gillings (tentative), Steve Forbes (invited) |
| Noon - 1:00 PM | Lunch Buffet |
| 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM | Updates from the ABA Ed Elfmann, Senior Vice President of Agricultural and Rural Banking Policy, American Bankers Association |
| 1:45 PM - 2:00 PM | Farm Bill and Congressional Update Justin Benavidez, Chief Economist, House Ag Committee |
| 2:00 PM - 2:15 PM | Break |
| 2:15 PM - 3:30 PM | Current Ag Lending Climate Panel: Challenges and Opportunities Ahead Moderator: Dr. Tyler Mark Panelist: Erica Rogers, Director of Agricultural Development, City of Lexington Brent Burchett, Government Affairs Manager, Farm Credit Mid-America Mary Courtney, Vice-President, Agricultural / Commercial Loan Officer, Independence Bank Shane Turner, Vice President - Chief Risk Officer, Central Kentucky Ag Credit (invited) |
| 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM | The Future of the Farm Financial Standards Council Moderator: Dr. Steve Isaacs Strategic planning discussion with membership about opportunities and challenges for the Council |
| 6:00 PM | Please join us for fellowship and networking at our group outing |
Friday, July 25
| 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM | Breakfast |
| 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM | Business Meeting |
| 11:00 AM - Noon | Check-out, boxed lunches |
| Noon | Load Tour Buses |
| Tour Stop 1 | Thoroughbred Horse Farm |
| Tour Stop 2 | Local Distillery Tour |
| Tour Stop 3 | Local Brewery Tour |
| 4:30 PM | Return to Hotel |