Agriculture visionaries awarded by Lt. Governor

For 19 years, the award has been presented as the state’s highest agricultural honor to individuals who have made significant contributions to the agriculture industry and their communities.

“Keith and Mark have truly made a ‘mark’ on Indiana’s agricultural success,” Lieutenant Governor Beckwith, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development said. “Our state’s progress in this industry is a direct result of their unwavering commitment and dedication.”

Keith Lambright’s lifelong dedication to the livestock industry, coupled with his leadership in Shipshewana Auction Inc., has left a lasting mark on the agricultural community of Indiana. With an early start in the industry and a career defined by hands-on learning and innovation, Lambright exemplifies the values of hard work, community involvement and a commitment to advancing livestock practice.

Lambright’s passion for livestock began at a young age, attending livestock sales directly from school and learning the trade by purchasing cattle. His on-the-job learning formed the foundation of a career steeped in practical experience and industry expertise. After high school, he began working at Shipshewana Auction, where his skills and dedication quickly became evident. In 1981, Lambright, along with his father and brother, purchased Shipshewana Auction, Inc., transforming it into a cornerstone of the local agricultural economy.

Under his leadership, the auction became a trusted marketplace for farmers, and livestock breeders across the region. Selling all types of livestock weekly, including pigs, dairy, veal, sheep, lambs, goats, bulls, cattle and horses. Since then the auction has continued to thrive and has kept agricultural practices at the forefront in LaGrange County and the Midwest. As a member of the Livestock Marketing Association, Lambright has ensured that Shipshewana Auction remains aligned with industry standards and best practices. He expanded his influence in 2022 in the livestock industry through co-ownership with Cedar Creek Meats, adding value to the local supply chain.

Lambright’s community involvement includes supporting 4-H through the livestock auction and serving as swine superintendent for LaGrange County 4-H. Additionally, he has served his local school board for 30 years. His participation in providing a location for livestock sellers to receive education through Purdue’s Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training reflects his commitment to maintaining high standards in livestock management.

His legacy continues through his children and grandchildren. All three of his children are an active part of the Shipshewana weekly livestock auctions, selling 2,000+ head of livestock weekly.

Lambright’s journey in the livestock industry is marked by decades of leadership, innovation, and service to his community. From his early days purchasing cattle as a young boy to his current role as a mentor and leader in the livestock and agricultural sectors, Lambright has consistently demonstrated the qualities that make him a deserving recipient of the AgriVision Award.

“Because of Hoosiers and visionaries like Keith and Mark, Indiana’s agricultural industry continues to thrive as the backbone of our economy,” said Don Lamb, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. “Both awardees have dedicated their career to making this industry better, and it was an honor to celebrate their contributions today.”

Mark Sigler is a great example of leadership and vision in agriculture, through his 38 years at Indiana Farm Bureau. Early in his career with Indiana Farm Bureau, he served as a marketing assistant and director of the organization team until 1994, when he was named corporate secretary. In 2002, he was named chief operating officer and treasurer, in addition to his role as corporate secretary. After a distinguished career, Mark will retire from Indiana Farm Bureau on September 1, 2025. During his years working in the agricultural industry, he has made significant contributions through his leadership, not only at Indiana Farm Bureau, but also at previous organizations, such as Farm Credit Services and the Purdue Cooperative Extension Service.

Mark has guided Indiana Farm Bureau for nearly four decades. Much of his work has been behind the scenes, supporting Indiana’s largest farm organization by listening to its members and helping to address challenges faced by farmers and agribusinesses alike. Sigler’s leadership played an integral role in the creation of the Indiana Farm Bureau Health Plans. Beyond Farm Bureau, Mark has helped move Indiana agriculture forward. As evidenced by his support of the conception of both the Indiana State Department of Agriculture in 2005 and Indiana Grown in 2012.

Servant leadership is always at the forefront for Mark, as evidenced by the numerous positions and volunteer roles he has held in the Indiana agriculture industry. He has served on the Indiana State Fair Board, worked in the cattle barn, served as swine superintendent and was the 4-H swine show announcer for many years during the Indiana State Fair. Mark was also the formed chair of the Purdue Ag Alumni Association, the Indiana AgriInstitute and the Madison County 4-H Council, as well as the former president on the Frankton Lions Club. Mark also received the 2019 Honorary Master Farmer Award. Mark continues to serve on the Future of Purdue Extension Task Force and is a member of the Community Church of Frankton and the Frankton Lions Club.