This story is sponsored by Daviess County Farm Bureau.
Brandon Gilles has been elected president of the Daviess County Farm Bureau — becoming the youngest person to hold the position in the organization’s 103-year history.
Gilles, who was elected in August 2025, said he’s honored to continue his family’s legacy of leadership within the local chapter. His father, grandfather, and great-grandfather also served as presidents.
“It feels pretty good,” Gilles said. “I’m excited to carry on the legacy of Farm Bureau and all the people who came before me. I’m looking forward to being a voice for agriculture not only in Daviess County, but across Kentucky and beyond.”
A fourth-generation leader, Gilles said the honor reflects both tradition and the growing presence of young people in agriculture — many of whom balance off-farm jobs with their farming responsibilities. He’s among them, working full-time at Farm Credit Mid-America while staying involved with his family’s operation, Gilles Farms and Hillview Farms.
“There are a lot of good young leaders in Daviess County agriculture,” he said. “We’re blessed to have people stepping up who want to be involved and make a difference. That’s something unique about Kentucky — we have strong youth leadership all across the state.”
A 2008 graduate of Apollo High School, Gilles grew up immersed in 4-H and FFA, serving as an officer in his school’s FFA chapter. He went on to earn a degree in agricultural economics and business from the University of Kentucky, becoming a first generation college student.
“Education was something my parents really instilled in me,” he said. “That’s part of why I value Farm Bureau so much — because it’s about educating the public about agriculture and the work farmers do every day.”
Gilles has remained active in Farm Bureau’s statewide leadership programs, participating in the Institute for Future Agricultural Leaders (IFAL), the Young Farmer Program, and the LEAD (Kentucky Leadership Enhancement for Agricultural Development) class. He’s also competed in the Discussion Meet and is currently participating in the Excellence in Agriculture contest, which recognizes individuals who make significant contributions to agriculture while earning their primary income off the farm.
“These programs have been a huge part of my development,” Gilles said. “They help you grow as a leader, connect with others across the state, and gain new perspectives on agriculture beyond your own county.”
Gilles said he’s grateful for the example set by outgoing president Wally Taylor and hopes to build on recent momentum within the local organization.
“We’ve got some big shoes to fill,” he said. “There are a lot of good things happening in Daviess County Farm Bureau, and we’ve got a few projects in the works that will come out soon. I’m excited to keep moving forward, continue supporting our members, and expand our scholarship and education opportunities.”
