The American Soybean Association (ASA) and Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont Business, are seeking applicants for the 2010 Young Leader Program. The Young Leader Program is recognized throughout agriculture for its longstanding tradition of identifying and cultivating the producer leaders who are shaping the U.S. soybean industry.

"The Young Leader Program is an exceptional leadership training program," said ASA President Johnny Dodson, a soybean producer from Halls, Tenn. "ASA and Pioneer are committed to developing the next generation of leaders for the soybean industry. As a graduate of this leadership program, I can personally tell you that the Young Leader program opens up a lot of opportunities for you."

The 2010 class of Young Leaders and their spouses will participate in a challenging and educational leadership experience December 6-9, 2009 at Pioneer headquarters in Johnston, Iowa, and then complete training March 2-6, 2010 in Anaheim, Calif., in conjunction with the annual Commodity Classic. This seminar offers the opportunity for participants to enhance their leadership skills, as well as meet and learn from other Young Leaders from around the United States and Canada.

Application forms for the 2010 Young Leader Program, sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred, have been mailed to all ASA members. Applicants may apply on-line directly at www.SoyGrowers.com/dyl, or call (800) 688-7692, ext. 1328, to obtain an application form. Soybean producers are encouraged to apply or nominate another producer who would be an excellent candidate for the program. Information on guidelines to participate in the program is available at ASA’s website or by calling the ASA program manager. All applications and nominations should be returned to ASA by Monday, August 31, 2009. One Young Leader couple or individual will be selected from each of ASA's state affiliates.