Applications for the Rice Leadership Development program must be received by Oct. 2. Rice producers and others in industry-related occupations are encouraged to apply for the next class, which will be announced in December at the USA Rice Outlook Conference in Biloxi, Miss.

The Rice Leadership Development Program gives young men and women a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. rice industry, with an emphasis on personal development and communications training. During a two-year period, class members attend four one-week sessions that are designed to strengthen their leadership skills.

The Rice Leadership Development class is comprised of five rice producers and two industry-related professionals. A committee of agribusiness leaders evaluates the applications, reviews letters of recommendation and conducts personal interviews with the finalists. Candidates must be 25-45 at the time of application and derive their primary livelihood from some aspect of the rice industry.

The program is sponsored by John Deere Co., RiceTec, Inc. and American Commodity Co. through a grant to the Rice Foundation and is managed by the USA Rice Federation.
Visit the 2011 Rice Leadership Web page for more information and to fill out an online application form and recommendation forms.