2026 Annual Meeting Wrap Up
February 2026
The Kentucky Pork Producers Association and the Tennessee Pork Producers Association convened on Friday, January 16, in Bowling Green, Kentucky, for their joint annual meeting. The event focused on celebrating industry achievements, advancing producer education, and strengthening collaboration across state lines.
The meeting brought together pork producers, allied industry partners, and stakeholders from both states for a comprehensive program highlighting the current state of the pork industry. Attendees heard from industry leaders and subject-matter experts who provided updates on market trends, economic outlook, animal health and biosecurity, veterinary insights, and key legislative and regulatory developments impacting producers at both the state and national levels. The joint meeting served not only as a celebration of accomplishments, but also as a strategic opportunity to align priorities, strengthen partnerships, and ensure a unified voice for pork producers across the region.
A highlight of the event was the annual scholarship banquet honoring the late Margie Holt. Presented by Mr. David Bryan Atcher, Scholarship Committee Chair and grandson of Margie Holt, the scholarship reflects her enduring legacy of perseverance, strong work ethic, and deep commitment to the future of agriculture. It embodies her belief in the power of education to develop the next generation of leaders and dedicated stewards of the pork industry.
Congratulations to the 2026 scholarship recipients:
Kenton Johnson - Mayslick, Kentucky
Wyatt Stumph - Willisburg, Kentucky
Ty Jones - Scottsville, Kentucky
Additional awards were presented recognizing outstanding service and leadership within the industry.
The “Top Hog” Award, honoring the Outstanding Association Volunteer, was presented to Sarah Hawkins of McLean County at the 2026 Kentucky & Tennessee Pork Annual Meeting. This award recognizes an individual who has selflessly given time and energy in support of the Kentucky Pork Producers Association. Whether at the Kentucky State Fair or other promotional events, Sarah consistently steps forward to educate the public and share her passion for pork and agriculture. Her dedication strengthens the Association and supports the continued success of the industry.
The Williford Family of Hickman, Kentucky, was recognized as the Outstanding Farm Family. This award honors a family whose hospitality and commitment to educating others about pork production have made a lasting impact on the Association and the communities it serves. The Williford Family has continually opened their farm to the public, hosting events and educational groups while actively participating in industry programming to expand outreach and awareness.
The Top Recruiter Award was presented to Mr. Drew Langley for his exceptional efforts in membership recruitment during the 2025 membership year. His commitment to strengthening producer engagement plays a vital role in advancing the Association’s mission.
The meeting also recognized producers who voluntarily participated in the creation of an On-Farm Sustainability Report. These farmers contributed time and data to better understand their environmental footprint, evaluating water use, energy efficiency, and overall resource management. By participating, they are helping tell agriculture’s story through transparency and measurable data while providing valuable benchmarks that support the long-term sustainability of pork production.
Kentucky Participants:
Amy Riley – 6R Farms
Michael Cochran – Cochran Farms
Justin House – House Farm
JT Workman – JT Workman Farm
William Jones – Jones Farm
Judd Davis – Judd Davis Farms
JW O’Bryan – O’Bryan Farms
Ronald Davis – Ron & Heather Davis Farms
Brandon Ellis – Vista Brook Farm
Michael Williford – Williford Farms
Zachary Workman – Workman Farm
Tennessee Participants:
Ben & Thomas Edwards – Edwards Farms
Crystal Koch – Koch Farms
Jennifer Moore – Moore Farms
Jeremy Walters – Walters Farms
The Associations also extend sincere appreciation to the event sponsors whose support made the meeting possible. The continued partnership of these organizations strengthens programming, producer education, and industry advancement throughout the region.
To view images from the event, please click the button below.