Meet Our 2025 Summer Interns

Each summer, we have the privilege of welcoming a new group of interns who bring fresh energy, new ideas, and a shared commitment to serving our rural communities. This year’s interns—Emma Kate, Hayleigh, Abigail, and Brock—each bring a unique story, a strong connection to agriculture, and a passion for learning. As we celebrate National Intern Day later this month, we’re shining a light on the incredible young talent helping to shape the future of ag lending and rural advocacy.

Hailing from the small town of Everton, Arkansas, Emma Kate Blankenship joins the team with a deep-rooted background in agriculture and a passion for connecting with her community. A graduate of Valley Springs High School, she plans to attend the University of Arkansas this fall to pursue a degree in agricultural business. Emma Kate brings hands-on experience from her family’s cow-calf operation in Boone and Newton Counties, and is actively involved in Boone County Cattlemen’s, Farm Bureau, and Young Farmers & Ranchers.

Emma Kate discovered this internship opportunity through a class discussion, encouraged by a professor who recognized her drive. She’s excited to lend a helping hand to the local ag community and eager to learn more about how Farm Credit works directly with producers. This experience aligns perfectly with her career goals, and she’s diving in with enthusiasm, ready to absorb all she can about customer service and agricultural finance in our Harrison branch.

Originally from Prairie Grove, Arkansas, Hayleigh Hunt joins Farm Credit as a Credit/Project Intern in the River Valley. A senior at Arkansas Tech University studying agricultural business, Hayleigh grew up immersed in the agricultural lifestyle through her family’s cow-calf operation. Her love for the outdoors and community-focused spirit make her a natural fit for a role that involves both people and purpose.

Hayleigh was drawn to this internship as a chance to expand her network, gain hands-on experience, and explore future career possibilities. She’s most looking forward to meeting farmers in the area and being of service to the community. With a vibrant personality and a proactive mindset, Hayleigh is ready to contribute while learning the ins and outs of agricultural lending.

Representing the Texarkana and Hope branches, Abigail McGuire brings a unique blend of analytical skills and creative energy. Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, Abigail recently earned her accounting degree from Texas A&M University–Texarkana and plans to return for an MBA in management. From competing on the university’s soccer team to serving as secretary of the accounting club, Abigail knows how to balance leadership and collaboration both on and off the pitch.

Abigail sees this internship as a key opportunity for career exploration and professional growth and is eager to discover what path fits her best. With a family beekeeping business back in Waco, TX, she’s no stranger to agriculture, and she’s excited to bring her detail-oriented mindset and customer-focused attitude to a new environment.

From riding horses to creating spreadsheets, Brock Lippe is right at home in the world of ag business. A student at the University of Arkansas, Brock was drawn to this internship after hearing glowing reviews from a friend who interned last summer.

For Brock, the internship is a stepping stone toward a career in ag finance, providing valuable exposure to customer interactions and branch operations. He’s looking forward to traveling, meeting farmers and team members alike, and gaining a deeper understanding of the industry he plans to serve long term. His appreciation for both tradition and forward thinking makes him a strong addition to the Farm Credit team.

As their summer journey continues, we’re excited to watch these four grow, connect, and contribute in meaningful ways. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication have already made a positive impact, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish next.