A group of 10 college students from nine different states completed the Ag Voices of the Future program in Washington, D.C. The program gives students an inside look at how agricultural policies are made in Washington.

The following students were selected for this year’s class:

“Building student interest in agricultural policy is an imperative for our industry, and a top priority for Valent,” said Matt Plitt, Valent U.S.A.’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. “We’re proud to partner with ASA to provide our young people with a meaningful learning experience that will help them shape the future of agriculture.”

The students received an education on effective advocacy and the significant legislative, trade and regulatory issues that impact farmers. The program also gave students the chance to visit with others who work in Washington to learn more about careers related to agriculture policy. The class was held July 9-12, 2018, in conjunction with the ASA Board Meeting and Soy Issues Forum. 

The three-day program was packed with educational meetings and networking opportunities. The students visited with staff from USDA and EPA; they participated in Hill visits with their state soybean associations, and they met with a senior staff member for the Senate Ag Committee and leaders from other national organizations, including CropLife America and the Agricultural Retailers Association.

“It’s important that young people have an understanding of the policy issues that directly impact the productivity and economic well-being of our farms and the soybean industry,” said American Soybean Association President John Heisdorffer, from Keota, Iowa. “ASA appreciates Valent’s support of this valuable program that develops future voices for the agriculture industry in Washington.”

Source: American Soybean Association