In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to become disconnected from the heartbeat of your community. Yet, encouraging the growth of strong connections with local officials, leaders, and neighbors is not just a good idea—it’s vital for fostering a sense of belonging and building a resilient, supportive community. Here’s how you can get to know the people who shape your community.
Most of you should know Ashton Cottingham. I have known Ashton for years and have worked with him on several events, and he is a great person to work alongside. I have had the pleasure of asking Ashton some fun questions about himself so we can get to know him a little better. Let’s take a closer look into Ashton’s life as a Cattleman and Agent.
Ashton Cottingham. – Cattleman and Alfa Insurance Agent
Can you tell us about yourself?
My name is Ashton Cottingham. I’m 34 years old and a graduate of Bibb County High School class of 2007 and Auburn University class of 2014. I have served as Bibb County Cattleman’s Association president, Bibb County Farmers Federation President, and I am currently the treasurer of the Centreville Main Street organization. I sell Alfa Insurance, and I also raise beef cattle and sell USDA beef here in Centreville.
If you could insure anything in the world, no matter how unusual, what would it be and why?
I’d want to insure the Biltmore Estate just to say I did.
What’s the most interesting or unique claim you’ve ever processed?
That’s hard to talk about.
Can you explain how Alfa’s community involvement benefits local customers?
We are deeply rooted in our community. Our local ALFA Famers Federation Board gives back thousands of dollars into our county every year as well as our agents. We are here for our customers night and day and are willing to go the extra mile to satisfy our customers.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to bundle their insurance policies?
The more you bundle the more you save with ALFA.
If Alfa Insurance had a mascot, what do you think it should be and why?
Alfa’s mascot would definitely be the farmer. We are a part of American Farm Bureau, and we are an organization started by farmers and led by farmers.
What’s the most rewarding part of being an insurance agent with Alfa?
I live to serve people and I try to help everyone I come in contact within some capacity. This job allows me to do that. If you know me, you know that you can call me anytime and I will do everything within my power to help you.
If your cows could talk, what do you think they’d say about their daily routine?
We eat before the eats every day.
What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever seen a cow do?
Watching the milk cow lay down when she is done milking so she can’t be milked anymore.
If you could give your favorite cow a superpower, what would it be and why?
To read my mind so they would do what I need them to do.
What’s the most unusual name you’ve ever given to a cow?
No names, just numbers.
Have you ever had a cow with a quirky habit or unique personality?
Yes, cows have a mind of their own. Cows turning over feed buckets before you can get them out irritates me the worst.
If cows could compete in the Olympics, which event do you think they would excel in?
Swimming for sure.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received from another cattleman?
Strive to be at least 1% better every year in your operation. Over a lifetime look at what you will accomplish. This is the same in our daily lives.
If you could have any historical figure, come help you on the farm for a day, who would you choose and what would you have them do?
George Washington for sure. He must have had a dream and a vision and been crazy enough to chase it. That’s my kind of people. We would talk about sustainability. We are going to have to focus on sustainability again one day and I can’t think of a better person to talk about it with.
“Exploring your community allows you to uncover its hidden gems and forge meaningful connections with your neighbors.” Thank you, Ashton Cottingham, for taking the time to answer our questions so that we may get to know you and your family on a more personal level.
