The Rice Foundation is accepting applications for the 2011 Rice Leadership Development Program. The program gives participants a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. rice industry — with an emphasis on personal development and communications training.

During a two-year period, class members – five rice producers and two industry-related professionals – attend four, one-week sessions designed to strengthen leadership skills. Class participants are selected by a committee of agribusiness leaders who evaluate the applications, review recommendation forms and conduct personal interviews with the finalists. Participants must be 25-45 years old at the time of application and must derive their primary livelihood from some aspect of the rice industry.

John Deere Co., RiceTec Inc. and American Commodity Co. sponsor the program, which is funded through a grant to The Rice Foundation and managed by the USA Rice Federation.

For more information or to apply, please visit http://www.usarice.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=152&Itemid=218Foundation Web page.