Nebraska LEAD Program Opens Applications for Next Cohort

The two-year fellowship focuses on developing leadership and policy skills for the next generation of agriculture advocates.

LINCOLN, NE (RFD NEWS) — Applications are now open for the next class of Nebraska’s LEAD Program, a leadership development initiative focused on preparing the next generation of agriculture leaders. LEAD, which stands for Leadership, Education, Action, and Development, is a two-year fellowship designed for farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness professionals looking to strengthen leadership and policy skills.

Kurtis Harms from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the LEAD program and what participants can expect.

In his conversation with RFD News, Harms explained how the program extends beyond traditional classroom learning through seminars, travel, and hands-on experiences.

“We’re traveling throughout the state of Nebraska. We’re taking part in 12 seminars across the state because agriculture is very different from north, south, east, and west within the state of Nebraska,” Harms told RFD News. “During year one, we’ll take part in a 10-day national seminar, and then, in year two, you will actually go abroad to see different cultures, to see different customers, to understand our competition a little bit better, so we can be better leaders for agriculture into the future.”

Harms says the program is looking for individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and want to make a difference in agriculture.

More information about the LEAD Program application process is available on the program’s website.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Industry leaders say producers could still benefit even with many operations already using reduced-tax off-road diesel.
ASFMRA’s Paul Burgener shares updates on the Hunggate Fire, Panhandle wildfire conditions, infrastructure damage and potential impacts to agriculture in the region.
For producers, the next proof will be actual export sales, shipment pace, and buyer breakdowns.
Smith says the measure would expand fuel choices for consumers while advancing energy independence.
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation shares how teens are helping fuel stronger demand for traditional U.S. dairy products.
The latest Meat Demand Monitor shows strong retail demand for beef products like ribeye steaks and ground beef.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
The Presley Family built Branson’s Original Show on the Strip. “Presleys’ Country Jubilee” was a smash hit, and people from across the country lined up every night for a chance to hear the country music and comedy the Presley Family loved to perform.
Griddle Nation is a celebration of griddle-loving home cooks across the nation.
Bill Gaither, the founder of one of gospel’s most successful groups, the Gaither Vocal Band, and his wife, Gloria, are delighted to showcase their favorite gospel music during “Gaither Gospel Hour” on RFD-TV.
Hosted by Agriculture Broadcaster Brian Baxter, RFD Network’s popular series “Classic Tractor Fever” is a must-see for any tractor enthusiast. It’s the place to find the history, stories, and passion of collectors who preserve these beautiful and amazing pieces of our agricultural past.
One of RFD Networks’ many efforts to showcase stellar American musical craftsmanship, “The Bluegrass Trail” showcases the greatest Bluegrass artists across the USA performing time-honored songs—many presented for the very first time. It’s a celebration of this nation’s musical roots right here on our Nashville stage!