KARL leadership program accepting applications for upcoming class 

Application deadline is April 1; Class XVII to be announced in June  

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, said Jill Zimmerman, KARL president.   

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.  

“This 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,” Zimmerman said. “They’ll 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 Zimmerman at 785-532-6300, email [email protected], or visit the KARL website at karlprogram.com.