Emerging Leaders Academy

The Emerging Leaders Academy (ELA) is an outreach and training program that works to instill a select number of agriculture professionals in Kansas with leadership skills and provide successful mentoring opportunities.

Each of ELA’s three phases immerses participants in different soybean industry segments and provides unique opportunities for personal and professional development. The ELA phases are typically scheduled as follows:

Phase I: Kansas Soybean 101 – Kansas Soybean Building in Topeka
December 12-13, 2024
This initial phase promotes better understanding of the Kansas Soybean Association and Commission, what these organizations do, the impact they have and their scope within the greater agricultural industry. Emerging Leaders develop personal skills.

Phase II: Kansas Soybean Industry – Statewide tour of Kansas
January 14-16, 2025
Participants observe different components of the soybean and Kansas agricultural industries through tours and conversations. Emerging Leaders develop professional skills to aid on farm, in business, and when representing their communities.

Phase III: National Impact of Kansas Soybeans – New Orleans, LA
February 18-21, 2025
Participants grasp the national and global impact of Kansas soybeans and connect how Kansas farmers fit into the whole system. Activities highlight similarities and differences in farming practices and in various regional populations. Emerging Leaders take part in the United Soybean Board meeting, meet with global leaders, tour ports, and experience local agriculture in this final phase. 

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What is the Emerging Leaders Academy?

The Emerging Leaders Academy is a partnership program between the Kansas Soybean Commission and Kansas Soybean Association that helps to provide awareness of both organizations’ scope of work. ELA’s ultimate goal is to instill leadership, professional and communication skills in Kansas agriculturists.

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Who can join the Emerging Leaders Academy?

Kansas soybean farmers or anyone who has a vested interest in learning more about the Kansas soybean industry are invited to apply. Each class size is limited.

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What will the Emerging Leaders Academy offer?

Participants gain numerous benefits:

  • Industry awareness, exposure and involvement
  • Leadership and communication training
  • Networking, partnership and mentoring opportunities
  • Professional skills
  • Personal development

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What is required of ELA participants?

An open mind, willingness to participate in all aspects of the program, a desire to learn how to influence the agricultural industry directly, and an interest in personal growth.

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How do I express my interest in participating?

Submit an application. Contact the Kansas Soybean office by phone at 877-KS-SOYBEAN (877-577-6923) with any questions.