This week marked the inaugural meeting of NCGA’s 2016 Leadership Academy.  Eighteen aspiring leaders met in Greensboro, North Carolina for a session sponsored by Syngenta.  They are part of more than 500 participants of this program over the last 30 years.

The meeting included a talk from NCGA First Vice President Wesley Spurlock, a Leadership Academy alumnus.  He offered the group some insights on the issues facing corn growers today.  Participants also had the opportunity for media training, public speaking exercises and management skill building.  Futurist Bob Treadway presented a look at the economic forecast and possible future impact of the industry.  Members also received training in personalities and their impact on interaction and tools for working together effectively.

“As a Leadership Academy graduate, I have a deep appreciation for the confidence and skills attendees develop in such a short time,” Spurlock said. “The Syngenta speakers, as well as the many outside experts brought in, have an incredible ability to hone in on precisely what will be most beneficial for our participants.

“As NCGA’s First Vice President, I am excited to see new leaders who want to take on an active role in the association. When these volunteers come together, you can feel their commitment to the industry. It is heartening to know that such strong farmer leaders will carry on our mission well into the future.”

This year’s Leadership at Its Best Class includes: Duane Aistrope (Iowa); Jayne Dalton (Wis.); Sarah Delbecq (Ind.); Deb Gangwish (Neb.); Patricia Geerdes (Minn.); Jeff Gormong (Ind.); Brent Hoerr (Mo.); Mike Lefever (Colo.); William Leigh (Ill.); Stacy Mayo (Kan.); Lawrence Onweller (Ohio); Mark Recker (Iowa.); Betty Skunes (N.D); Randall Small (Kan.); Clint Stephens (Mo.); Roger Sy (Ill.); Scott Winslow (Minn.); and Josh Yoder (Ohio).

Open to all NCGA membership, Leadership at Its Best provides training to interested volunteers of all skill levels. The second session, which will be held this March in Washington, addresses public policy issues, working with the Hill and parliamentary procedure. Through this program, participants build the skill set needed to become a more confident public speaker with a solid background in the procedures and processes used by NCGA and many state organizations.

NCGA and Syngenta have been helping train leaders since 1986.  All participants are registered members of NCGA.