Twenty eight farmers, ranchers and others involved in agriculture have been selected for the South Dakota Agricultural and Rural Leadership class that starts this year.

FUTURE LEADERS: The South Dakota state dome rises above the trees in Pierre. New members of the latest South Dakota Agriculture and Rural Leadership class may end up serving in the state legislature in the future. Photo: SD Department of Tourism

They are Brian Bannwarth, Mitchell; Shelby Bartling, Gregory; Ryan Beer, Lemmon; Peggy Bieber, Leola; Scott Biskeborn, Chamberlain; Lacey Caffee, Wessington Springs; Rebecca Christman, Sioux Falls; Billy Clanton, Buffalo; Matt Dybedahl, Pierre; Adam Ehlers, Presho; Brian Gilbert, Sioux Falls; Danielle Hanson, Pierre; Jennifer Henrie, Philip; Sarah Hill, Brookings; Kara Kayser, Emery; Jonathan Kleinjan, Brookings; Derek Little, Brookings, Chad Nelsen, Viborg; Bart Randall, Chamberlain; Tiffani Robertson, Hermosa; Lee Sanderson, Conde; Kyle Schell, Wall; Adam Schindler, Reliance; Bo Slovek, Philip; Ben Stout, Kadoka; Brian Ternus, Valley Springs; Rob Thuringer, Madison; Jason Warrington, Groton.  “The training emphasizes understanding of political, social, economic and cultural issues as well as basic skills in communications, interpersonal relations, decision making and problem-solving.   Participants gain firsthand knowledge of trends, key issues and agriculture innovations and developments in South Dakota.” 

A SDARL experience prepares them for civic and community engagement to serve on boards, volunteer in community and ag industry organizations, and increases analytical and strategic planning skills. Seminars are designed to allow opportunity to directly interact with private business leaders, government leaders, state and federal agency personnel, and build relations with SDARL alumni.

Starting November 2016 through April 2018, the program includes 10 in-state seminars, one national study seminar to Washington, D.C. and a two-week international study seminar all centered on local, regional, national and international agriculture. 

SDARL started in 2000 and its alumni organization now exceeds 245 graduates. The SDARL program is a private/public partnership funded through tuition and sponsorships.  For additional information, see www.sdarl.org.

Source: SDARL