STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Barren Inc, the Barren County Chamber of Commerce, recognized a slate of local professionals, farmers and business leaders during its annual Achievement in Business awards luncheon Wednesday at Willow Oaks Golf Club in Glasgow.
The luncheon highlighted five awards designed to showcase excellence in administration, agriculture, small business and community leadership.
Mariel Casian accepts the Administrative Professional of the Year award during the Barren Inc Achievement in Business awards luncheon on May 7, 2026. Chris Houchens/For Glasgow News 1
The Administrative Professional of the Year Award went to Mariel Casian, human resource director for the Barren County Family YMCA. The award honors the often behind-the-scenes work of administrative professionals who keep local organizations running in a fast-paced business world, according to an embargoed press release from Barren Inc. Casian is known for her leadership and dedication, including launching and leading the YMCA’s Hispanic Heritage event to celebrate culture and strengthen community connections. She has helped bridge gaps between the Hispanic and immigrant community and local resources and was selected as one of only 18 participants nationwide for the YMCA’s Employee Resource Group and Inclusive Leadership Initiative. Casian has also taken part in immersive learning in Mexico and received a national YMCA scholarship to attend the YMCA General Assembly.
Ken Wininger accepts the Farmer of the Year award during the Barren Inc Achievement in Business awards luncheon on May 7, 2026. Chris Houchens/For Glasgow News 1
The Farmer of the Year Award was presented to Ken Wininger of Wininger Homestead Farm, recognizing what organizers describe as the profound impact of Barren County’s agricultural community. Wininger represents the fifth generation of his family to live and work on the farm, which dates back to the late 1800s near the Veterans Outer Loop, according to the press release. He operates a diversified farm producing beef cattle and hay and is active in the Barren County and Kentucky Cattlemen’s Associations, where he serves as crew chief of the well-known Cooking Crew. Wininger also has been a longtime volunteer and leader with the Barren County Extension Service, including past chairman and current treasurer.
Drew Thompson accepts the Small Business of the Year award during the Barren Inc Achievement in Business awards luncheon on May 7, 2026. Chris Houchens/For Glasgow News 1
Small Business of the Year was awarded to Lockshield Partners Accounting Services. The firm has been recognized back-to-back as Best of Barren Accounting Firm in 2024 and 2025. Lockshield Partners focuses on a client-centered approach built on relationships, trust and personalized service while also offering paid internships, financial literacy initiatives and personal finance education in partnership with Western Kentucky University, according to the press release.
Wade Copas accepts the Magnolia Award for Mallie Boston during the Barren Inc Achievement in Business awards luncheon on May 7, 2026. Chris Houchens/For Glasgow News 1
The 2026 Magnolia Award went to Mallie Boston of the Boys & Girls Club of Glasgow-Barren County. Named after the magnolia tree, the award honors women whose strength, leadership and service have a lasting impact on the community. Boston was described as a connector and servant leader who has helped guide the Boys & Girls Club through growth. She has helped build partnerships and invest in the next generation through mentorship and advocacy. Boston was unable to attend the ceremony, and Wade Copas with the Boys & Girls Club accepted the award on her behalf.
Zac Ross accepts the Business Person of the Year award during the Barren Inc Achievement in Business awards luncheon on May 7, 2026. Chris Houchens/For Glasgow News 1
The 2026 Small Business Person of the Year Award went to Zac Ross of Ross Wealth Advisory. Ross is known for his integrity, people-first approach and commitment to staying informed so he can provide a high level of service to his clients, according to the press release. He launched Ross Wealth Advisory to better serve the needs of Barren County and is involved with Barren Inc, the Boys & Girls Club of Glasgow-Barren County, his church, local youth initiatives and community financial wellness courses.
“These recipients represent the very best of Barren County,” said Maureen Carpenter, President & CEO of Barren Inc. “Their commitment to excellence, service, and community is what drives our region forward. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and the meaningful difference they make every day.”
Key Facts
– Barren Inc hosted its annual Achievement in Business awards luncheon Wednesday at Willow Oaks Golf Club in Glasgow.
– Awards were presented in five categories: Administrative Professional of the Year, Farmer of the Year, Small Business of the Year, the Magnolia Award and Small Business Person of the Year.
– Administrative Professional of the Year went to Mariel Casian of the Barren County Family YMCA.
– Farmer of the Year was awarded to fifth-generation farmer Ken Wininger of Wininger Homestead Farm.
– Lockshield Partners Accounting Services was named Small Business of the Year.
– The 2026 Magnolia Award honored Mallie Boston of the Boys & Girls Club of Glasgow-Barren County.
– Zac Ross of Ross Wealth Advisory received the 2026 Small Business Person of the Year Award.
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