Michigan Ag Connection - Apply for 2018-19 ASA Young Leader Program

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Apply for 2018-19 ASA Young Leader Program
Michigan Ag Connection - 06/21/2018

The American Soybean Association (ASA) and Corteva Agriscience, Agriculture Division of DowDuPont ,are seeking applicants for the 2018-19 Young Leader Program (YLP).

For more than 30 years, the ASA YLP has identified and developed grower leaders who have shaped the agricultural industry.

"The Young Leader Program is among the most impactful training programs in agriculture, recognizing the value of engaging and encouraging a diverse agricultural leadership. The training allows participants to realize their leadership potential and create meaningful relationships with other growers from the U.S. and Canada, improving collaboration throughout the industry," said ASA President John Heisdorffer, a farmer from Keota, Iowa. "We can't thank Corteva Agriscience enough for their longstanding support and commitment to building strong, passionate agricultural leaders."

The YLP, sponsored by Corteva Agriscience and ASA, is a two-phase educational program for actively farming individuals and couples who are passionate about the future possibilities of agriculture. Phase I of the 2018-19 YLP will take place in Johnston, Iowa, November 27-30, 2018. The program continues Feb. 28 -- March 2, 2019 in Orlando, FL in conjunction with the annual Commodity Classic Convention and Trade Show. "We loved being a part of a program that encourages young leaders in agriculture," said Michelle Washburn a 2018 YLP participant from Shiawassee County. "It's exciting to learn from and network with young farmers across the United States. It was an honor to be a part of representing Michigan."

Soybean grower couples and individuals are encouraged to apply for the program, which focuses on leadership and communication, the latest agricultural information and the development of a strong peer network. ASA, its 26 state affiliates, including the Grain Farmers of Ontario and Corteva Agriscience, will work together to identify the top producers to represent their state as part of this program.

"Throughout both phases of the DuPont Young Leader program, one lesson that really stood out is for all producers to get out and inform people on agriculture," said Matt Doss, Michigan's 2015 ASA DuPont Young Leader. "Most importantly, we need to build relationships with our politician's both in our districts and in urban districts to ensure government policy allows U.S. agriculture to grow and maintain a competitive advantage in the world economy. This program has made me realize that as a soybean producer I need to look at the whole picture and not just what is going on at our farming operations."

Selection criteria for the ASA Young Leader Program is as follows:

1. Innovative soybean farmers interested in growing their existing skills for future leadership positions. Applicants must show strong leadership qualities demonstrated through production/marketing of soybeans and community activities.

2. Active supporters of agriculture with an interest in serving as a soybean industry leaders.

3. Demonstrated natural resources stewardship using best management and conservation practices.

4. Members of their state soybean association.

5. Participants must be at least 21 years old.

Young Leaders enhance their leadership skills and build a strong peer network leading to increased success in their business, leadership and community.

Many graduates of this leadership training program assume roles on their state and national soybean associations.

This seminar is an intense course designed to enhance leadership skills for the future benefit of the entire agricultural industry. The training is interactive and includes evening group meals and activities. Young Leaders and their spouses are expected to participate fully in all training aspects and evening activities.

Applications are being accepted online. Deadline is Sept. 26. Visit this site for more the application and more information regarding the program: http://soygrowers.com/learn/young-leader-program/

The Michigan Soybean Association (MSA) represents soybean farmers in Michigan through its membership efforts. MSA programs are designed to improve and advocate for the Michigan soybean industry and promote legislation favorable to Michigan soybean farmers. MSA works to ensure that Michigan soybean farmer voices are heard at the local, state and national levels. For more information visit misoy.org.

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