Members of the 2012 Rice Leadership Development Program class were announced during the annual Rice Awards Luncheon. The class is comprised of five rice producers and two industry-related professionals selected by a committee of agribusiness leaders.

The new rice-producer class members are Brian Barrett, Arbuckle, CA; Rance Daniels, Hornersville, MO; Timothy Gertson, Lissie, TX; Noble Guedon, Natchez, MS; and Clint Roth, Stuttgart, AR.  The new industry-related class members are Natalie Hummel, LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, LA; and Brice Lauppe, Farmer's Rice Cooperative, Roseville, CA.

The Rice Leadership Development Program gives young men and women a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. rice industry, with an emphasis on personal development and communication training. During a two-year period, class members attend four one-week sessions that are designed to strengthen their leadership skills.