Soybean farmers sought for leader program

Single soybean growers may also apply for the program.

COLUMBUS — The Ohio Soybean Association is recruiting applicants for the 2008 ASA/DuPont Young Leader Program, an intensive training program that focuses on leadership training for farm couples.

The program is run in cooperation with the American Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc. a subsidiary of DuPont.

The first phase of the 2008 program will be held Feb. 26-March 1 in Nashville, Tenn. It will focus on leadership style analysis, media training, soybean issues training and interaction with other Young Leader participants, followed by participation in the Commodity Classic Conference and Trade Show, the premiere agricultural event for soybean growers.

The second phase will take place in December, with dates to be determined, at the Pioneer headquarters in Johnston, Iowa. During this phase, participants will have the chance to tour Pioneer research facilities, and take part in industry issues discussion with soybean policy updates and targeted case studies to prvovide hands-on experience in problem solving, creativity, teamwork and organization.

To be considered for the program, applicants should be interested in pursuing leadership roles within the soybean industry, must not already be on the board of a state soybean association, and are required to have a current state soybean association/ASA membership to take part in the program.

Any soybean grower 21 years or older may apply, and the applicant’s spouse does not have to be employed on the farm to be included as a participant. Single growers may also apply. If chosen, participants must commit to attend both phases of the leadership training.

To apply for the 2008 ASA/DuPont Young Leader Program, visit www.soygrowers.com/dyl to fill out an application form or to learn more about this exciting opportunity for soybean growers.

For the past 25 years, the Young Leader Program has helped to build a valuable resource of leaders that help shape the future of the soybean industry. This is an intensive training program that seeks to identify, cultivate, train and develop soybean growers who are looking to take on future leadership positions in the soybean industry. It offers participants challenges, insight, surprises and a chance to network.

“The Young Leader Program was a great opportunity to learn the skills I will need to reach my goals,” said Ryan Rhoades, 2007 ASA/DuPont Young Leader participant from Delaware County. Ryan’s wife, Amanda, also participated in the program.

“We gained very practical, useful information from this experience that will definitely help both of us in the future,” said Ryan. “I now have a better understanding of where I want to be, and how to get there.”

The Ohio Soybean Association is governed by a 24-member volunteer farmer board dedicated to education and promotion, as well as to uniting producer interest through support of legislative activities beneficial to the Ohio soybean industry.