A Person You Should Know
Kelley Sheiss of Larwill is a busy mom, farm wife, substitute teacher, FFA supporter and economic development advisor. As this week's "Person You Should Know," she is active in the Indiana livestock industry and works to promote agriculture at the local level.
Family: Husband, Donnie, full-time farmer; son, Dillon, a senior at Columbia City High School
My Job: Helping out on the family farm operation. We run a 600-sow farrow-to-finish hog operation, diversified row crops and also raise club calves, show pigs and exhibition poultry. I also do freelance work in leadership and community development, currently serving as an agribusiness partner with the Kosciusko Economic Development Corp., as well as a substitute teacher at Columbia City High School.
My mentor: I have a few: First, my dad. Growing up, I watched him as a tenacious business leader, yet he always kept his sense of humor and knew how to have fun. Second, David Smith of Star Financial Bank for his humble servant leadership. And finally, my husband. He started farming full-time straight out of college, taking out a loan to buy his first sows. He works 200 percent every day to make our farm operation a success.
My mission in life: "Live Life to the Fullest"
How I give back: For many years I have strived to serve my community and/or agriculture in different ways. I have served on the United Way board, local parks board, and as a volunteer for our great 4-H and FFA programs. Currently, I am an alternate on our local BZA (board of zoning appeals) board and serve as the Area 11 director for the Indiana Beef Cattle Assn. I also feel very strongly about supporting small and local businesses, as well as youth entrepreneurs.
Hobbies: Showing livestock and poultry with my family, spending time outdoors and crafts/making jewelry.
Favorite autumn activity: I love everything about the fall season, especially harvest, growing pumpkins and Penn State football.
To nominate someone for this column, call or email Jerry Goshert (jerry@farm ers-exchange.net) editor. The telephone number for editor is 574/831-2138.