TERRE HAUTE, Ind. — The spotlight is shining on an Indiana family that seems to have successfully dived into farming head first.

Kurt and Jenny Hamilton along with their children have been named the 2023 Indiana Farm Family of the Year by Beck’s Superior Hybrids and Indiana AgriNews, which have teamed up to honor one Indiana family annually for the past 25 years.

Winners are judged by their work on the farm, service to their community and the agriculture industry.  The award is aimed at increasing awareness of the important contributions farm families are making. 

“This award recognizes the accomplishments of the Hamilton family in growing their farm from 80 acres to 4,000 acres while serving their local community in meaningful ways during this time,” said Scott Beck, president of Beck’s Superior Hybrids.

The couple. with help from their two sons, Tyler and Kody, raise corn and soybeans in Terre Haute.

The Hamilton’s have 50 times more land in production than they had when they started farming 15-years ago.

They’re still looking to diversity and grow their operation.

“When you surround yourself with good people who are smart and knowledgeable, you’re going to be successful.  We learn from each other, and we don’t take that for granted,” Mrs. Hamilton said.

The family has been involved with the Wabash Valley Fair Association for over 20-years. Mr. Hamilton has served as fair board president for two-years while Mrs. Hamilton served on the Vigo County Soil and Water Board for 10-years.

She was also the first ever woman chairwoman of the organization.

The family is also large supporters of FFA and 4-H.

The Indiana Farm Family of the Year award was announced January 9 after the family was recognized during the 2022 Indiana Farm Bureau Convention on December 16 in Indianapolis.

AgriNews Executive Editor James Henry described the family as a longstanding example of what keeps the industry moving in a positive direction.

“As agriculture changes, a common thread binds us together.  Family farms like Hamilton Family Farms are planting the seeds today for an even brighter tomorrow,” he said.

Nominations for the 2024 Indiana Farm Family of the Year award will open in the summer, officials said.