Celebrating Women in Agriculture: Meet Emma Brown

As we celebrate International Women's Day, First Bank and Trust Company wishes to recognize the remarkable contributions of women throughout our organization, especially in agriculture. Emma Brown, Vice President and Loan Officer in Harrisonburg, VA, stands as a shining example of expertise, and dedication in both the finance and agriculture industries.

Emma Brown, VP/Loan Officer in Harrisonburg, VA

Emma's journey into financial services began with a deep-rooted passion for agriculture. Raised on a multifaceted farm in Southwest Virginia, she was immersed in livestock management and crop cultivation from a young age. Her involvement in 4-H and FFA further fueled her enthusiasm for agriculture, leading her to pursue a degree in Animal & Dairy Science at Virginia Tech.

Emma Brown with beef cattle on her property

Emma joined First Bank and Trust Company in 2015 with a mission to provide personalized financial solutions to the agricultural community. Her firsthand knowledge of agriculture has allowed her to forge deeper connections and offer tailored solutions to fit the financial needs of farmers and agribusinesses. Emma's commitment to understanding her clients' unique needs and employing creative problem-solving is what sets her apart in the agricultural lending field.

Emma visiting an agricultural customer at their operation.

Over the years, Emma has observed a growing interest among women in agricultural lending and the broader agricultural industry, reflecting a changing landscape that embraces new opportunities for collaboration and innovation. Guided by mentors who encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone and embrace new challenges, she is committed to mentoring and empowering the next generation of women in agricultural finance.

The First Bank and Trust Company Agriculture Lending Division offers financing to expand farm operations, real estate and improvements, purchase equipment, livestock, and operating lines of credit. In November 2022, First Bank and Trust Company was recognized as the nation’s fourth-largest agricultural lending portfolio among Ag banks and the 30th-largest agricultural lender among all U.S. commercial banks.

To learn more or contact Emma, visit Branch Locations & Hours | First Bank & Trust Company