The Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership program, now in its 33rd year, is accepting applications for its 2024-26 class. Applications will be accepted through April 1. Thirty members of Class XVII will be announced on June 1 in Manhattan. 

Through in-state seminars, and national and international study tours, new class members will receive more than 400 hours of training over two years in agriculture, business and rural communities.

The program is designed to enhance class members skills as they prepare for leadership roles in agriculture, business and rural communities. 

KARL graduates become part of an alumni network and have gone on to serve in the state legislature, farm organizations, agribusinesses and community government and organizations. 

The program is for anyone who wants to learn more about our state, country and global entities, especially as they pertain to agriculture and rural communities. KARL participants will also learn ways to enhance their communication skills and broaden their circle of friends and business connections. 

Once applications close, a list of finalists will be interviewed by a selection committee in May and the new class roster will be announced on June 1. 

KARL is a member of the International Association of Programs for Agricultural Leaders. IAPAL has member associations in 40 states and multiple countries. 

For more information about KARL, contact Jill Zimmerman at 785-532-6300, email karl@ksu.edu, or visit the KARL website at karlprogram.com.

Stacy Campbell is an agriculture and natural resources agent for Cottonwood Extension District. Email him at scampbel@ksu.edu or call the Hays office, 785-628-9430.