The Wedgworth Leadership Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources (WLIANR) is soliciting nominations for Class XII of its two-year leadership development program. The program is sponsored by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS).
Nominations close June 1 and applications are due no later than June 15. Self-nominations are accepted. Class XII will begin in Gainesville in November. To learn more about the program and to submit a nomination, visit wedgworthleadership.com.
Utilizing 11 multiday seminars throughout Florida, the United States, and internationally, WLIANR develops leaders to ensure a strong and adaptable Florida agriculture and natural resources industry for generations to come. WLIANR aims to prepare leaders to assume greater responsibilities in their organizations, industries and communities; create strategic alliances to build strong networks; analyze complex issues to influence constructive change and to develop a better understanding of self and others, as well as the diverse communities in which we live and work.
Florida citrus industry members who have recently participated in the program include Morgan McKenna and Aaron Himrod.
ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for consideration, nominees must:
- Be at least 25 years old
- Have resided in Florida for a minimum of one year
- Receive a substantial portion of their income from Florida agriculture, natural resources and/or
related industries - Demonstrate strong leadership potential
HISTORY
The WLIANR program began in 1989 when UF/IFAS saw the need for an agricultural-based leadership program in Florida and implemented the Florida Leadership Program for Agriculture and Natural Resources. The program has graduated 10 classes with approximately 300 alumni. The program’s name was changed to Wedgworth Leadership Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources in 2003, in honor of George Wedgworth’s contributions to agriculture.
The program’s academic home is in the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication. The WLIANR has an advisory council made up of alumni, industry officials and university personnel who assist staff in keeping the program relevant and advise about its structure and content.
Source: WLIANR