By Andi Anderson
Indiana Farm Bureau recently recognized three outstanding young agricultural leaders with its prestigious Young Farmers & Ag Professionals (YF&AP) awards. The awards celebrate individuals who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and a strong commitment to advancing agriculture across Indiana.
This year’s top honors went to Justin Johnson of Whitley County, Megan and Justin Platt of Shelby County, and Courtney Mann of Putnam County. Winners were selected by a panel of judges based on their leadership activities, Farm Bureau involvement, and contributions to the agricultural industry.
Justin Johnson of Whitley County received the Excellence in Agriculture Award. The award recognizes Farm Bureau members whose primary income comes from non-farming careers while actively supporting agriculture and community organizations.
Johnson combines his interests in agriculture and technology through his work as a customer success technician for an agricultural equipment dealership, helping farmers use precision agriculture tools and improve farm efficiency.
Reflecting on his agricultural roots, Johnson said, “Very few people get the opportunity to grow up on a farm and that’s a blessing. I could have gone in any direction with my career, but agriculture is in my blood.” He also shared, “Winning this award is an honor because of the chance I get to represent the state of Indiana on a national level. My grandparents served on the first Young Farmer committee, and my parents have both been active on our county board and at the state level. Their example helped instill in me the value of leadership, service and involvement.”
Megan Platt and Justin Platt of Shelby County earned the Rising Star Award, which recognizes outstanding Farm Bureau members between 18 and 30 years old. The couple has dedicated significant effort to agricultural education and youth engagement. Megan works as an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor, while Justin serves as a quality control chemist for a global agribusiness company.
Together, they operate a beef cattle farm and actively support local Farm Bureau programs. They also established a youth advisory board to encourage students to learn more about agriculture and leadership opportunities. Megan said, “It’s really easy to feel defeated when you’re starting out and trying to do things on your own. Winning the Rising Star award tells us we’re going in the right direction.”
Courtney Mann of Putnam County received the Achievement Award, which honors young farmers who earn most of their income from farming operations and demonstrate excellent management skills. Mann plays a key role in her family’s corn, soybean, and wheat operation, focusing on risk management, grain marketing, crop insurance, and government programs.
Discussing her motivation, Mann said, “I want to continue being involved in Farm Bureau because I think it’s important for those of us in agriculture to have a voice and a seat at the table, especially when it comes to policymaking at the local, state and national level.” She added, “The ‘why’ that keeps me motivated is working with my family. My family means everything to me and working together in our family business to give opportunities to future generations is something I’m extremely proud of. It really means a lot to me to receive this award and a full circle moment because my parents won this award in 1993.”
The award winners will be formally recognized during the Indiana Ag Gathering in December, highlighting the important role young leaders play in shaping the future of agriculture and rural communities.
Photo Credit: indiana-farm-bureau
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