The American Soybean Association and DuPont Crop Protection are seeking nominees for the 2001 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 who now play an integral role in the promotion of agriculture and the success of the soybean industry in the 21st Century.

The ASA/DuPont Young Leader Program targets soybean farmers who are innovative, assertive, "young in leadership" and looking to make their mark in agriculture. Now in its 18th year, the program has a tremendous record of success. Hundreds of program alumni have assumed significant leadership responsibilities in state and national soybean associations and promotion boards as well as national, regional and state agricultural organizations, including Farm Bureau, NCGA and more. Nearly all are making a difference in agriculture by ensuring that the voice of the American farmer is being heard!

"Changes in agriculture are happening at such a rapid rate that farming today is different than just a year ago," said Tony Anderson, President of ASA. "While soybean producers face many challenges, they also have tremendous opportunity to contribute to the global economy. If we are to continue to be successful, we must seek out and nurture new leadership that will help guide agriculture into the new millennium. The ASA/DuPont Young Leader Program makes it possible for us to find the exceptional leaders who will work hard to keep our industry strong."

According to Rob Dittmer, Ag Relations Manager, DuPont Crop Protection, "DuPont believes that agriculture needs strong, informed leadership at every level: locally, statewide and nationally. This program helps identify farmers that go on to leadership positions in state and national trade associations. We are proud of the ASA/DuPont Young Leader tradition and are excited to once again be involved with the program."

The 2001 class of the ASA-DuPont Young Leaders and their spouses will participate in a challenging and educational leadership experience February 21-24, 2001 in San Antonio, Texas. This four-day 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, February 25-28, 2001, which will round out a full week of learning, networking and personal growth. In late November 2001, participants will travel to St. Louis, Missouri to complete their training.

Nomination forms for the 2001 ASA-DuPont Young Leader Program are being mailed to all ASA members, and can also be requested by calling (800) 688-7692. Soybean producers are encouraged to apply or nominate another producer who would be an excellent candidate for the program. Nominations should be returned to ASA by Friday, October 27, 2000, at which time they will be forwarded to the appropriate state soybean association. Each nominee will be asked to complete a one-page application form. One Young Leader will be selected from each of ASA's state affiliates.