Missouri’s soybean farmers are investing in the future with the launch of the new Policy Leaders Fellowship (PLF) program. In partnership with Iowa soybean growers, the new program offers leadership training, networking opportunities, and hands-on work with policy, government, and legislative processes.
“The Missouri Soybean Association is a farmer-led organization with strong grassroots support, and we’re very proud of that foundation,” said Ronnie Russell, Missouri Soybean Association president and a farmer from Richmond. “Investing in the next generation of agricultural and policy leaders is key to serving Missouri’s soybean farmers. Our impact grows as we work together, and this is a great step forward for ensuring soybeans are front and center in Missouri and the Midwest well into the future.”
The program is designed for young professionals involved in production agriculture. One applicant will be selected from each crop reporting district in Iowa (9) and Missouri (7). The strongest candidates will have an interest in agricultural policy education and be active members of their state soybean associations. Applications may be submitted online at mosoy.org/fellow through August 15.
The program will kick off September 21-22 in Jefferson City, with a joint meeting of participants from Iowa and Missouri, as well as national-level speakers and mentors. Key components of the program will include participants’ opportunities to:
- Network and socialize with fellow producers, industry professionals and key decision makers;
- Build a foundational understanding of the legislative and regulatory process;
- Engage policymakers to advocate on behalf of agriculture and the soybean industry; and
- Develop and strengthen personal leadership skills.
The new education program is possible thanks to support from Missouri soybean farmers and their checkoff. Producers selected to participate in the program will be announced in September.
The Missouri Soybean Association is a statewide membership organization working to increase the profitability of Missouri soybean farmers through advocacy and education efforts across the state. The Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council is a statewide, farmer-led organization focused on improving opportunities for Missouri soybean farmers though a combination of research, outreach, education, and market development efforts through the soybean checkoff. To learn more, visit mosoy.org.