LEADelaware, the state’s agriculture and natural resources leadership program, is now accepting applications for its fifth fellowship class, which will run for two years starting in January 2018. Applications must be received by October 27; applicants will be notified of their selection in early December.

LEADelaware is designed to help build the next generation of leaders within the food and fiber sectors that influence our food system, our economy, and our environment.

LEADelaware Fellows meet with Sen. Chris Coons during their recent session to Washington, D.C.

“The development of leaders in today’s agricultural and natural resources fields is more important than ever,” says Michael Scuse, Secretary at the Delaware Department of Agriculture, which is a lead partner in the program. “Delaware farmers must have the skills to discuss critical issues with public and policy makers at the local, state and even national levels.”

The program consists of ten sessions throughout Delaware and Washington, D.C., as well as an international agricultural visit. Fellows will learn about agriculture, food systems, policy making and hands-on leadership skills.  View LEADelaware video recaps from a sample of these sessions.

Candidates must be a resident of Delaware or work in Delaware agriculture or natural resources for at least two years. This includes farmers, growers, industry suppliers, agribusiness employees and government agency professionals. Applications are available at https://sites.udel.edu/leadelaware or by contacting Grace Wisser at the University of Delaware at gwisser@udel.edu or 302-831-4722.

LEADelaware is a partnership between University of Delaware’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Delaware Department of Agriculture, as well as sponsors including MidAtlantic Farm Credit, Delmarva Poultry Industry, Inc., and the Delaware Soybean Board.

Contact: Kenny Bounds, Delaware Department of Agriculture, 302-698-4529 office, 302-698-7554 cell, kenneth.bounds@state.de.us