FCCS News & Insights

Recognizing Change Makers: Submit Your 2025 Accelerator of the Year Nomination

Faced with economic headwinds, striving to reduce costs while increasing service to member owners, and investing in technology, including the implementation of advanced data and digital strategies, and human capital – every cooperative operates in a quickly changing and increasingly demanding world. Exceptional individuals step up to take on projects, lead initiatives, and make game-changing impacts on their teams and organizations.

FCCS is now seeking these key individuals as nominees for the 2025 Accelerator of the Year Award, which recognizes the person who has made significant contributions to advancing their organization, accelerating change, and fostering growth.

“Given the significant accomplishments and advances made across key initiatives within the Farm Credit System and related agribusinesses this year, I’d encourage your thoughtful nomination of those individuals on your team that have made considerable contributions to these achievements. The FCCS Accelerator of the Year award provides a unique opportunity for your key contributors to be recognized on a national scale and rewarded for the successes realized for the benefit of your organization and customers.” - Chad Moller, President & Chief Executive Officer, FCCS

“Who’s raising the bar in your organization? Celebrate the colleagues whose bold impact, fresh innovation, and inspiring leadership are driving change—and whose example helps us all learn, grow, and succeed together.” Jean Cantey Segal, EVP & Chief Learning Officer, FCCS

The 2024 Accelerator of the Year was Tom Truitt, CEO of Horizon Farm Credit. Tom was honored for establishing numerous initiatives to drive Horizon Farm Credit toward continued success — from implementing data and digital strategies to enhancing employee communications, and improving risk and facilities management. His leadership helped unite employees under new priorities following the recent merger, aligning the organization on innovation and exceptional member service. (Listen to the recent podcast episode for more information on Tom’s Leadership Journey.)

Previous Accelerator of the Year Award winners include Byron Enix, now-retired CEO of American AgCredit; Kayla Robinson, COO, AgTexas Farm Credit Services; Kelly Miller, Director, AgTech Financing, Compeer Financial; and Allyson Tjoelker, Senior Vice President of YBS and Mission Lending, Capital Farm Credit.

Nominations for the 2025 Accelerator of the Year can be submitted through January 31, 2026. The winner will be announced in April and will receive $1,000 and recognition on FCCS’ digital media channels and at FCCS’ 2026 Conferences.

Award Process

Visit the FCCS Accelerator of the Year Award website to access the nomination form. Please submit only one nomination for the individual you believe best represents the Accelerator of the Year.

Nominations will be accepted until midnight on January 31, 2026.

The FCCS award committee will review the nominations and select the Accelerator of the Year based on the information provided.

The Accelerator of the Year will be announced in April 2026.