ASA and NCGA Leadership At Its Best participants at Syngenta’s Seedcare Institute in Stanton, Minn.

Soybean farmer-leaders from 13 states met this week in Minneapolis for Part I of the 2017-18 American Soybean Association (ASA) Leadership At Its Best program, sponsored by Syngenta. This valuable program recognizes up-and-coming soybean farmer-leaders and provides them with extensive training to further develop their leadership skills and provide additional education on communications, strategic planning, forecasting, media training and overall effective leadership practices.

At the beginning of the program, attendees had the chance to hear an update on ASA’s current policy priorities and efforts from Vice President John Heisdorffer (IA). Later in the week, the group had a chance to learn about pest and weed control innovations, during a visit to Syngenta’s offices in Minnetonka and their Seedcare Institute in Stanton, Minn. Portions of the training and social events were held jointly with the Leadership At Its Best class from the National Corn Growers Ass

ASA farmer leaders discuss the future of agriculture at Leadership at Its Best this week.

ociation (NCGA), allowing an opportunity for participants to visit with those farmer-leaders as well.

Leadership At Its Best Program participants are nominated by their state soybean association and serve in a leadership role within their states. This year’s class participants include: James Hereford, Gurley, AL; Derek Helms, Arkadelphia, AR; Jim Martin, Pontiac, IL; Tim Bardole, Rippey, IA; Andy Alford, Bowling Green, KY; Jamie Beyer, Wheaton, MN; Gip Carter, Rolling Fork, MS; Brett Medlin, Indian Trail, NC; Gregg Gussiaas, Carrington, ND; Ryan Rhoades, Prospect, OH; Joshua Kayser, Emery, SD; Don Holbert, Dandridge, TN and Tony Mellenthin, Menomonie, WI. The leaders will begin the second phase of their training next March, in conjunction with the ASA Board Meeting in Washington, D.C.

ASA appreciates the continued support provided by Syngenta that makes this important leadership development program possible. For more information on Leadership At Its Best, click here.