The 33rd class of American Soybean Association (ASA) DuPont Young Leaders recently began their leadership journey at DuPont Pioneer headquarters in Johnston, Iowa.

The Johnston training session was the first phase of a program designed to identify new and aspiring leaders and provide them with opportunities to enhance their skills and network with other growers. Representatives from 23 states and Canada participated in the training.

“The Young Leaders program provides training in key areas, including communication and leadership, while growing their peer network. This strengthens our industry and allows us to work collaboratively in our local, state and national organizations,” said ASA Chairman Richard Wilkins (DE). “The Young Leaders program continues to have an enormous impact on not only the soybean industry but all of agriculture. The class of 2017 is exceptional; they are engaged, talented and passionate about agriculture. We are grateful to DuPont Pioneer and DuPont Crop Protection for making this program possible.”

The 2017 Class of Young Leaders are: Cade Grace, AL; Layne and Ryane Miles, AR; Brock Willard, IL; Jonathan and Derika Lynam-Spaetti, IN; Alex Brownlee, IA; Casey Schlichting, IA; Brandon and Blair Geiger, KS; Brett Neibling, KS; Kyle Bugg, KY; Mike and Lindsey Gaspard, LA; Angela and June Provost, LA; Andrew Crawford, MI; Matt and Jessica Swoish, MI; Trevore Brekken, MN; Chad and Monica McCollough, MO; Blake Hokamp, NE; Leslie Hamilton and Dan Stein, NY; Greg Manning and Jessica Harris, NC; Kasey Bitz, ND; Trish Levering, OH; Jean Lam, OK; Jeff and Janie Harrison, Canada; Justin and Jessica Rivers, SC.; Nick and Shelly Lorang, SD.; Rob Holman, TN; Doug Singleteary, TN; Grayson Kirby and Cindy Dykes, VA; Wes and Amanda Marshall, VA; and Tony and Katie Mellenthin, WI.

“It was a privilege to meet this year’s enthusiastic class of DuPont Young Leaders, who will take on the challenges and opportunities that face American agriculture,” said Steve Reno, vice president, regional business director - U.S. & Canada. “We look forward to watching them develop their leadership skills throughout the program.”