The American Soybean Association (ASA) and Pioneer, a DuPont Company, are seeking nominees for the 2003 ASA/DuPont Young Leader Program. The Young Leader Program is recognized throughout the soybean industry for its longstanding tradition of identifying and cultivating excellent leaders, many of whom now play an integral role in the promotion of agriculture and the success of the soybean industry.

"The ASA/DuPont Young Leader Program is a dynamic learning experience," said ASA President Dwain Ford. "The instructors and program content are of the highest quality. This program provides information that the participant can start using immediately, not only in their business, but personally as well. As a graduate of the Young Leader program, I would encourage anyone who has an interest in improving their leadership skills to apply for the program. It will be an investment that will provide unlimited opportunities in the future."

The ASA/DuPont Young Leader Program is looking for soybean farmers who are innovative, assertive, young (or new) to leadership, and looking to make their mark in agriculture. The program, which began in 1984, has a tremendous record of success. Hundreds of program alumni have assumed significant leadership responsibilities in state and national agricultural organizations. Young Leaders are making a difference in agriculture by ensuring that the voice of the American farmer is heard.

"Applicants selected as Young Leaders have an excellent opportunity to learn the key leadership skills necessary for high profile roles within agriculture," said Kevin Turnblad, Pioneer Key Account Manager. "They do this through interactive training that utilizes instructors and materials that have been very successful in the real-world. Participants can also learn from each other and through the use of case studies of topics that are ‘front-burner’ and pivotal to the future of agriculture. If anyone is interested in making a difference in agriculture, this program is for you."

The 2003 class of Young Leaders and their spouses will participate in a challenging and educational leadership experience Feb. 24-26, 2003, in Charlotte, NC. This seminar will include leadership and issues training, and provide an opportunity for participants to meet and learn from other Young Leaders from around the country. The class will also take part in the Commodity Classic, Feb. 27–Mar. 1, 2003, rounding out a full week of learning, networking, and personal growth. In November 2003, participants will travel to Pioneer’s headquarters in Johnston, Iowa to complete their training.

Nomination forms for the 2003 ASA/DuPont Young Leader Program have been mailed to all ASA members. Forms may also be obtained by calling (800) 688-7692 or on the web at www.SoyGrowers.com. Soybean producers are encouraged to apply themselves or nominate other producers as candidates for the program. Nominations should be returned to ASA by Friday, October 25, 2002. Each nominee will be asked to complete a one-page application form. One Young Leader couple will be selected from each of ASA's state affiliates.