The California Agricultural Leadership Program (CALP) has received a $10,000 Douglas D. Sims Fund for Rural Leadership grant from the Farm Credit System Foundation in Washington, D.C.

The fund focuses on the development of rural leaders, particularly those who are committed to making rural communities better places to live.

“We are fortunate to receive such a generous contribution from the Sims Fund that will further enhance leadership training for our Ag Leadership Program fellows,” said Bob Gray, president and chief executive officer of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation which operates CALP. “We also appreciate the ongoing support from Farm Credit System institutions.”

The Douglas D. Sims Fund for Rural Leadership was established in 2006 by CoBank with a $1 million donation to recognize former CoBank CEO Douglas D. Sims for his 37 years of service to the Farm Credit System.

The fund is administered by the Farm Credit System Foundation, a non-profit corporation sponsored by donations from Farm Credit System institutions and by more than 1,000 individuals affiliated with the Farm Credit System.

CALP prepares men and women in California agriculture for effective leadership roles. It is an intensive two-year fellowship that provides individuals with exceptional professional and personal leadership development experiences.

CALP has more than 1,100 graduates and current fellows, including many influential leaders in government, communities, and the agricultural industry.