Division Director
We interviewed Division Director Sharon Spencer of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture about how she began her life and career in agriculture, from humble beginnings in Frankfort County to her promotion as Director of the Direct Farm Marketing Division in 2017. Throughout her years of experience, she imparts some wisdom to all those looking to make their own impact and help move the agricultural industry forward.
How did you become interested in agriculture?
"I grew up on the family farm in Franklin County and was always my Papaw's shadow. My love for farming continued as I married my husband Mike in 1984, who was a tobacco farmer, and we have since moved away from tobacco and now have beef cattle. In 1995, Mike and I served as the Young Farmer Chair for District 6 with Kentucky Farm Bureau, and I served as the first women President in Franklin County from 2004-2019. Mike and I are still active directors on the Board. Farming has just always been a part of my life. One of the best moves, I transferred to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture after working for over 14 years with the Personnel Cabinet as the Group Life Insurance Branch Manager. I was ready for a change and a new path, the best decision I made, and special thanks to Matt Stone and Steve Kelly for giving me that opportunity. I love what I do and feel on most days; I have helped a little in moving Kentucky Agriculture forward."
How long have you been with your organization, and what other roles have you held?
"Started with KDA in October 2009 as the Farmers' Market Marketing Specialist. Promoted to Director for the Direct Farm Marketing Division in April 2017."
What are your greatest achievements?
"My family and friends. I've been blessed with such a supportive Mom that has always been my number-one cheerleader and a husband and farm partner that believes in me. Doing what I love every day and hopefully making a difference. In October 2021, I was awarded the Laura Clay Award with the Kentucky Women in Ag, one of the highest honors you could receive. I am blessed and thankful for the support I get from these ladies. In May 2022, I was awarded the Agricultural Woman of the Year award at our 62nd Franklin County Farm/City Banquet. Thankful for a community that supports women leaders and that can recognize and honor our hard work."
What advice would you give to others looking to make an impact in the agriculture community?
"Be true to yourself. Farming is tough, and it's a lot of give and take. It's not a 9 to 5 job. It's very rewarding watching something you plant in the ground grow, giving that baby calf a chance when its Momma has given up on it, and doing what your heart tells you. I have been very involved with many of our FFA students from working with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and Franklin County Farm Bureau, and sometimes you don't feel you have made a difference until you get a handwritten note from some of those students that have graduated college, getting married and beginning their careers saying thank you for everything you have done and being their role model. That's when you know you have made an impact; it warms your heart and keeps you going. You don't have to grow up on a farm to be involved in Agriculture and make a difference. The most important thing is just stepping up, reaching out to help and learn what farming means to that Kentucky farmer."
