Shipshewana Auction owner honored with two prestigious Indiana agricultural awards

Keith Lambright, owner of Shipshewana Auction, Inc., was recently recognized with two of Indiana’s highest honors in agriculture at the start of the 2025 Indiana State Fair, celebrating his decades of leadership, innovation, and service to the livestock industry and his community.

First, Lambright received the AgriVision Award from Lt. Governor Micah Beckwith and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) — the state’s highest agricultural honor — presented annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to Indiana agriculture and their communities.

In addition, Lambright was inducted into the Indiana Livestock Breeder’s Association Hall of Fame, honoring his outstanding impact across multiple species in Indiana’s livestock industry. The award was presented by Rex Smith, a member of the Indiana Purebred Swine Breeders.

Lambright’s passion for agriculture began early. As a boy, he often left school to attend livestock sales, learning the business firsthand by purchasing and caring for cattle. In 1981, he joined his father and brother in purchasing Shipshewana Auction, Inc., transforming it into a trusted marketplace for farmers and livestock breeders across the Midwest. Today, the auction sells more than 2,000 head of livestock weekly — including pigs, dairy, veal, sheep, lambs, goats, bulls, cattle, and horses — and remains a cornerstone of the LaGrange County agricultural economy.

His influence spans multiple livestock species. In partnership with Jack Ward, Lambright operated Maple Lane Angus, one of the top Angus herds in the country, with genetics still seen in leading pedigrees today. He also co-owned one of Indiana’s top swine seedstock operations, producing breeding stock and show pigs that found success nationwide. More recently, Lambright and his son, Brian, returned to the purebred swine industry and they also manage a flock of about 300 Hamp/Cross ewes producing top show lambs. In addition, in partnership with Barry Nowatzke, he has 250 registered Angus cows.

In 2022, Lambright expanded into meat processing through the purchase of Cedar Creek Meats, further strengthening the local agricultural supply chain.

Lambright’s dedication extends well beyond business. He has served as swine superintendent for LaGrange County 4-H, mentored countless youth in livestock care and showmanship, provided a facility for Purdue’s Beef Quality Assurance training, and spent 30 years on the local school board. His 10-year personal participation in 4-H inspired a lifelong commitment to supporting the program.

All three of his children — Stacy, Jenny, and Brian — are active in the weekly Shipshewana livestock auction, ensuring that his agricultural legacy continues into the next generation. Lambright and his wife, Doreen, have 10 grandchildren.

“This award isn’t really about me,” said Lambright. “It’s about the next generation — the young people coming up in agriculture — because they are the future. I believe we’re just stewards of our farms, our livestock, our money, and most importantly, the soil beneath our feet. These are gifts from God, and it’s our responsibility to care for them, protect them, and lead with integrity for the sake of those who come after us. If we want our kids to grow up respecting the land and the life we love, we have to show them how — by example.”

“Because of Hoosiers and visionaries like Keith, Indiana’s agricultural industry continues to thrive as the backbone of our economy,” said Don Lamb, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. “Awardees like him dedicate their careers to making this industry better, and it is an honor to celebrate their contributions.”

“We’re incredibly proud to see Keith Lambright and Shipshewana Auction recognized at the state level for their contributions to Indiana’s agricultural industry,” said Sonya Nash, Executive Director for the LaGrange County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Agriculture is at the heart of LaGrange County’s identity, and businesses like Shipshewana Auction not only sustain our local economy—they draw visitors from across the country who are eager to experience authentic rural traditions. This recognition highlights how deeply connected our tourism success is to the strength and legacy of our farming communities.”

For more information about the AgriVision Award, visit isda.in.gov.

Pictured: Keith Lambright receiving award alongside his wife, Doreen, and nine of their ten grandchildren.