Packed House Celebrates Local Agriculture at 52nd Annual Spotlight on Agriculture

The newly opened Laurens County Ag Center was filled to capacity last week as community members gathered for the 52nd Annual Spotlight on Agriculture. With more than 430 meals served, the event showcased the strong support for Laurens County’s agricultural community and the individuals who help it thrive.

Hosted as an annual tradition, the evening brought together farmers, students, industry leaders, and community supporters to celebrate achievements in agriculture while recognizing the next generation of leaders in the field.

A Night of Recognition and Community

The program featured opening remarks from Tim Faulkner, a welcome from Andy Howard, and participation from Laurens High School JNROTC, Laurens County 4-H members, and Jade Hawkins for the National Anthem. Rev. Myron Wilkins, President and CEO of Thornwell, delivered both the invocation and served as the evening’s speaker.

In his remarks, Wilkins shared both humor and heartfelt perspective as he reflected on his journey from city life in Philadelphia to finding a deep appreciation for agriculture in Laurens County. Drawing from his childhood experiences on his grandfather’s farm, he emphasized the powerful connection between people, the land, and community. Wilkins highlighted the role agriculture plays not only in feeding people physically but also in nurturing them spiritually and emotionally. He also spoke about Thornwell’s long-standing commitment to self-sufficiency and how its farm continues to serve as a place of healing, growth, and education for children and families. Encouraging those in attendance to continue sharing their knowledge with the next generation, he underscored the importance of preserving agricultural traditions while inspiring young people to stay connected to the land.

Awards were presented across a wide range of categories, highlighting excellence from students to seasoned agricultural professionals.

2026 Award Winners

Clinton High School Outstanding FFA Member of the Year

• Cayson Stover

Laurens District 55 High School Outstanding FFA Member of the Year

• Anna Penland

Laurens High School Horticulture Student of the Year

• Davis Simpson

Laurens County Clemson Extension Advisory Council Scholarship Winners

• Jordan Lawson

• Anna Penland

• Garrison Vaughn

• Mary Howard

Laurens County Woodlands Manager of the Year

• Ray Gosnell

Laurens County Outstanding Cattleman of the Year

• Raymond Prescott

Laurens County Outstanding Broiler Producer of the Year (Amick)

• Tommy Holsonback

Laurens County Outstanding Broiler Producer of the Year (Best Dressed)

• Tim Faulkner

Laurens County Special Commodity Producer

• JBW Farms

Laurens County Farm Family of the Year

• Mark Taylor

Laurens County Agriculturalist of the Year

• Thomas Dailey

Celebrating the Heart of Laurens County

The Spotlight on Agriculture continues to serve as a reminder of the vital role agriculture plays in Laurens County’s economy and way of life. From student achievements to industry leadership, the evening highlighted the dedication, innovation, and resilience of the local farming community.

With a packed house and strong community turnout, this year’s event underscored just how deeply agriculture remains rooted in Laurens County—and how bright its future continues to be.