Preston Roberts’ political prowess and passion for agriculture have been assets to the Alabama Farmers Federation for the past 11 years. 

He’ll continue providing steady leadership and serving farmers as the External Affairs Department assistant director. He moved into that role July 7.

Roberts’ ability to build relationships with legislators, stakeholders and farmers is invaluable, said Federation External Affairs Department Director Brian Hardin.

“Preston understands the importance of our organization’s grassroots policy,” Hardin said. “Whether in the halls of the State House, at county Federation meetings or on a farm, Preston goes to work every day to help Alabama farmers.”

Hardin continued, “He listens to their needs and is a wise steward of the resources God has given him to serve others. It’s my privilege to see Preston grow into this position.”

The Shelby County native graduated from Auburn University with a degree in fisheries and allied aquaculture and previously worked for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. He began his Federation career in 2014 as Area 7 organization director, where he served Barbour, Bullock, Chambers, Lee, Macon, Randolph and Russell counties.

He joined the External Affairs Department  in 2019 as director of agricultural legislation. Last year, he received his Juris Doctor from the Faulkner University Thomas Goode Jones School of Law and was admitted to the Alabama State Bar.

Roberts has been a steadfast champion of farmers and rural Alabama. His thorough research, reputation and reliability quickly positioned him as the go-to contact for media during the last legislative session’s push to authorize Alfa Health Plans. The landmark legislation is expected to be life-changing for farm families and small business owners across the state.

“Serving the members of the Federation has been the honor of my life,” Roberts said. “It’s a privilege to work every day to improve the lives of the men and women who are the backbone of our society. I look forward to continuing to serve in this new role.”

He added, “I am grateful for the opportunity to assist our team as we continue to build on the Federation’s grassroots success in shaping state policy that supports Alabama’s farmers and rural communities.”

Roberts and his wife, Mandy, are raising children Sam, Ben and Lucy in Auburn. They attend First Baptist Church of Opelika.