Arkansas – Applications for the forthcoming class of the LeadAR leadership program of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture are now being accepted, therefore providing a comprehensive learning path across many economic and social issues in Arkansas. Under the direction of the Cooperative Extension Service, this program seeks to produce strong community leaders ready to properly comprehend and impact public policy and community development.
Originally motivated by the leadership development program of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, LeadAR has grown to be a pillar for developing leaders in Arkansas, especially in its rural and agricultural areas since its founding in 1984. The director of the program, Julie Robinson, an extension professor, stresses the dedication of the program to practical skill development and thorough knowledge of local and national policy impacts.
“Through the LeadAR program, participants receive a unique, hands-on experience in skill development,” said Robinson. “They will gain a better understanding of local issues, which helps them see policy impacts at the community, state and national level.”
The 18-month curriculum is set up with bi-monthly seminars addressing a broad spectrum of issues from infrastructure and public health to natural resources and economic development spread over several parts of Arkansas. With a balanced representation from rural, urban, and agricultural sectors, the forthcoming class—which marks the 21st in its history—may include as many as 30 participants.
Candidates have to be at least 25 years old by the first seminar and live in Arkansas. The initiative seeks to keep a demographic balance of 50 percent rural populations, 25 percent urbanites, and 25 percent from the agricultural industry. The application deadline is February 7; the same month is designated for the interviews. March 7, 2025 will see announcements of notifications for successful applicants.
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LeadAR Class 21 members will also have unique opportunities like a trip to Washington, D.C. to interact with national leaders and address community issues and a mock legislative session held at the Arkansas State Capitol. The program ends with an international research trip when participants will investigate worldwide political dynamics and their effects back home. Past classes have visited over 34 countries, enriching their perspectives and understanding of international affairs.
Participants in the program will work on a leadership service project meant to encourage good changes in their local communities. Previous initiatives have been building local libraries and organizing yearly Goat Festival in Perryville.
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Influential leaders like farmers, teachers, state legislators, and city council members—all of whom have helped to define the legacy and effectiveness of the program—make up the network of more than 500 LeadAR graduates. Participants are urged to look for financial support from their companies or through accessible scholarships; the program fee of $3,500 includes lectures, accommodation, meals, most travel expenses.
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To learn more about LeadAR and to apply, visit uaex.uada.edu/leadar or contact Julie Robinson, LeadAR director, or Lisa Davis, program coordinator, by emailing [email protected].
This initiative guarantees not only knowledge but also empowerment for the upcoming leaders of Arkansas.
