Recently, we were honored to spend the morning with our local COUNTRY Financial agents—Ms. Charlotte Clover, Mr. Travis Holtkamp, and Mr. Mike Meisenheimer at the COUNTRY Financial office in Jonesboro, where they shared valuable insight into the products and services they offer. Our students learned about different types of insurance, the importance of preparedness, the power of community involvement, and the many opportunities that exist right here in Union County.

Mike, Travis, and Charlotte are all proud Union County residents and business owners who serve our community as independent representatives of COUNTRY Financial. Charlotte operates from her office in Anna, while Mike and Travis are based in Jonesboro. Beyond their professional roles, each of them demonstrates a deep and genuine commitment to community service and involvement.

Charlotte has been a dedicated member of both the Union County Chamber of Commerce and Union County Women in Business since their inception. She also played a key role in launching the Locally First initiative and has long served on the Union County Hospital Board. Mike has devoted many years to the Union County Fair Anna, IL Board, including serving as treasurer, and remains actively involved with the Chamber as well as several horse-related organizations, reflecting his passion for Tennessee Walkers. Travis is also an engaged Chamber member and is frequently involved in a wide range of community events throughout Union County.

Their commitment extends strongly to education and youth development through the Union County CEO (UCCEO) program. All three have been long-time investors in the program. Travis has served as a mentor for several years, while he and Charlotte have generously shared their time and expertise through the “Ask the Expert” workshops. Together, they have supported UCCEO through presentations, business visits, partnerships, and ongoing encouragement.

This visit was especially meaningful—and bittersweet—as it marked Charlotte’s retirement. Charlotte was the first female insurance agent in our community, paving the way for women in business. She was honored this year at the Union County Women in Business Christmas Party for her pioneering role in the insurance industry, her leadership within Women in Business, her involvement in the Locally First movement, and her entrepreneurial work alongside her husband with their lavender farm. Charlotte has been a champion for each of these efforts and a steadfast supporter of countless school and community groups, organizations, and individuals—including Union County CEO.

Congratulations, Charlotte, on your well-deserved retirement. We wish you many happy and fulfilling years ahead.

Thank you, Travis, Mike, and Charlotte, for a fantastic morning and for your continued support of the Union County CEO program.