Westley Drake

Westley Drake, a proud 14th-generation farmer, carries forward a family legacy that dates back to the 1650s in the rich agricultural soils of Virginia. Working alongside his parents, Michael and Rebecca Drake, on their 1,400-acre operation, Sandy Ridge Farms, Inc., in Newsoms, VA, Westley helps cultivate a diverse array of crops, including cotton, corn, soybeans, and Virginia-type peanuts, primarily grown for seed production. He and his wife, Maci, are raising their two young children, Skylie and Dawson, with the same passion for farming and community involvement that defines their family.

A 2011 graduate of North Carolina State University, Westley holds Associate of Applied Science degrees in Field Crops Technology, Agribusiness Management, and General Agriculture. This robust educational foundation equips him with a deep understanding of modern agricultural practices, which he applies daily on the farm.

Westley’s dedication to agriculture extends beyond the fields. He has served in leadership roles for numerous organizations, including the Virginia Peanut Growers Association, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation’s Peanut Advisory Committee, and the Southampton Agriculture and Forestry Advancement Foundation. He is also a certified firefighter and EMT, volunteering with the Newsoms Volunteer Fire Department since 2006, and remains an active member of Newsoms Baptist Church.

Passionate about advocacy, Westley uses his free time to share insights about farming through interviews, newspaper columns, public speaking engagements, and social media. His love of travel allows him to explore the diverse landscapes of the United States and connect with people from all walks of life.

As a member of the National Peanut Board, Westley is eager to expand his knowledge of the peanut industry and collaborate with fellow board members and staff to drive market opportunities and production research. He sees this as an incredible opportunity to be an even stronger advocate for the peanut industry, helping to secure its bright future.