02 Jan 2026 Five-Oh-Ones to Watch 2026: Magen Allen
By Judy Riley
Little did Magen know when she married Jeremy Allen, what lay ahead. He is from a three-generation farm family, but for her it was all new. She immediately embraced the farming lifestyle and business. Not only did they become partners in raising a family, they became partners in JA Farms, including raising cattle and hay, running a feed mill and a farm store. She manages the day-to-day activities of all enterprises.
“As we began to build our own farm, we found a support system with Arkansas Farm Bureau (ArFB). It gave us the tools we needed to be successful, make connections and grow our leadership skills. Over the last 20 years of involvement in ArFB programs, I learned how to be a better advocate for agriculture. Most recently, I was elected as vice president of the ArFB State Board,” Allen said.
Being elected to that position is a first for Allen and a first for the organization. “Magen Allen has demonstrated a deep commitment to the mission and purpose of Farm Bureau during her service as a board member,” said Jarrod Yates, Arkansas Farm Bureau executive vice president. “We look forward to her expanded role as vice president of our board of directors and know she will bring a great deal of energy, thought and passion to that role.”
She is dedicated to supporting farmers and ranchers. “Arkansas’s No. 1 industry is agriculture. ArFB works to protect not only farms but rural communities. We have policies that fight for rural health, broadband, education and infrastructure,” Allen said. “In my new role as vice president, I hope to find ways to support our row crop industry during a very critical time. Less than 2% of the population feeds the world, and it is vital to us as a state and nation that we help them continue to provide. I hope to find solutions that protect Arkansans’ right to farm by looking at sound science and proven data rather than emotion.”
She is inspired by Queen Elizabeth II. “Throughout her 71-year reign, she remained true to herself and true to her duties, no matter what others thought. As a woman, that can be difficult. I aspire to always do what is right even when it may not be the most popular, while remaining true to myself,” she said. “I want to be known as one who is willing to stand up for the agriculture industry.”
Allen and her husband are busy raising four children, Lane, Brody, Evelyn and Eli. All are involved in some part of the business. The Allens are big supporters of their kids’ activities. One might find them cheering for them at ball games or in rodeo events. She is most proud of raising her children in a small community where they are caretakers of the land and serve those in need.
Allen has served on the Bismark School Board for 16 years and is involved in the children’s ministry at Caney Baptist Church. She draws on her favorite Bible verse for inspiration, Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and he will make straight your path.”
Allen loves spending time with her family on nearby lakes. Although her travels take her around the country in her role advocating for the agriculture industry, she loves the hospitality and family-friendly vibe of Central Arkansas. Her favorite spot is their home and farm near Bismark in rural Hot Spring County.
Allen’s advice for others who want to stand out in their community is simple, “Don’t be afraid to ruffle some feathers. Communities need leaders to be a voice for them. Be a person who gives back and lends a hand when needed.”
