The 31st class of ASA DuPont Young Leaders began their leadership journey at DuPont Pioneer headquarters in Johnston, Iowa, last week.

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 training that included educational and skill-building components.

“The ASA DuPont Young Leader Program has had a tremendous impact on not only ASA but the entire agricultural industry,” said Ray Gaesser (Iowa), ASA President. “By identifying new and aspiring agricultural leaders and then providing them with training that enhances their leadership skills and grows their peer network, the Young Leader program strengthens our industry and allows us to work more collaboratively in our local, state and national organizations. The participants in this year’s class are impressive; they are extremely knowledgeable, talented and passionate about agriculture.”

The 2015 class of ASA DuPont Young Leaders are: Kyle Bridgeforth, Ala.; James Bisswanger, Ark.; Dave McEachren, Canada; Nick Wurl, Ill. Adam & Hannah Steen, Ind.; Morey & Rhonda Hill, Iowa; Andrew & LaVell Winsor, Kan.; Andrew & Jenny Alford, Ky.; Brennan & Serena Gilkison, Ky.; Odis Hill, La.; Matthew Doss & Stephanie Francis, Mich.; Aaron Yaggie, Minn.; Ryan and Wendy Wondercheck, Minn.; John Mark Looney, Miss.; Bill Hayen, Mo.; Amanda Fairley, Neb.; Brent & Brenda Svoboda; Neb.; Brad Macauley, N.Y.; Christopher & Cherish Naylor, N.C.; Jarred Billadeau N.D.; Dan & Cindy Sturgill, Ohio; Cliff & Hailey Barron, S.C.; Antron Williams, S.C.; Brandon Wipf, S.D., John Dodson & Kristi Kosman, Tenn.; Chase & Jessica Ann Hickman; Tex.; Glenn Dye, Va.; and Brad & Nicole Kremer, Wis. Also pictured, ASA President Ray Gaesser, Iowa and First Vice President Wade Cowan, Tex.

“Agriculture faces many challenges and opportunities as American farmers work to help meet the growing global demand for food,” said Randy Wanke, senior manager of Industry Relations, DuPont Pioneer. “We are proud to support the young leader program, which is developing the future growers needed to capture those opportunities and meet those challenges.”