The Wyoming L.E.A.D. Program
develops individuals who want to be agricultural and rural leaders. Through a series of in-state seminars, and a national and international seminar, participants network with experts to learn about agriculture and natural resource issues and opportunities.
Leadership Training Program for Aspiring Rural Leaders
Program History
Established in 1984, the Wyoming L.E.A.D. program initially received a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to establish a rural leadership program. It is the state's oldest state-wide adult leadership training program.
The Wyoming Agricultural Leadership Council (WALC) is a non-profit organization that administers the program.
Across the nation, there are about 40 similar agricultural and rural leadership programs, including some international programs.
Program Information
The Wyoming L.E.A.D. program is designed to develop and train a network of leaders who can speak forcefully and articulately for agriculture and Wyoming communities.
Participants gain confidence through group discussions, personal presentations, networking opportunities, and a leadership component during each seminar.
The program consists of nine in-state seminars, plus a seminar in Washington, D.C., and an regional or international study tour. Topics are varied and include communication, family business planning; leadership; agricultural policy, programs, and trade; rural economics and marketing; natural resources and energy; state and national government; and value-added agriculture.
Seminar presentations and local tours enable participants to understand Wyoming communities and meet with state and nationally-elected officials, state agency directors, agricultural organizations, and other industry leaders.
L.E.A.D. RESULTS
Seventeen classes of leaders, with a total of 269 individuals, have graduated from the program. Many of our alumni are the most influential individuals in the agricultural community. Refer to the statistics below to demonstrate the involvement of our alumni.