About Us
Leaders are not born, they develop their leadership abilities over time. They fine-tune their communication and motivation skills, learn to build consensus, develop a depth of understanding second-to-none in their field of expertise, and they nurture the character of servant leadership that is within them.
The South Dakota Agricultural and Rural Leadership Foundation (SDARL) develops leaders in three programs: our flagship 18-month leadership development program for 28 individuals who will rise to leadership roles in our state and communities; The SDARL Graduate Experience seminars for our lifelong-learning program alumni; and “Leadership 2.0” leadership training for commodity board members, FFA advisors, community non-profit boards and partner organizations. Explore our website and learn more!
Board
The SDARL Foundation has a dynamic Board of Directors consisting of leaders in agriculture from across the state and nation.
Leaders
Every day, the 300 graduates and class members of the SDARL program make a positive and profound impact on agriculture and rural communities throughout the state.
Investors
Program funding comes from companies, individuals, and partner organizations who share a passion for developing leaders who will keep South Dakota agriculture and rural communities thriving!
Blog
SDARL Graduates Featured in Media
SDARL graduates have been featured in stories on local television programs recently. Kurt Zuehlke (SDARL VII), pictured above, was the focus of a story …
Heemstra Wins Prestigious Brokaw Award
DRG Media Group News & Farm Director Jody Heemstra (SDARL V) has been named as the 2021 recipient of the Tom Brokaw Award, recognizing …
Bob Thaler Recognized for SDARL Board Service – Jonathan Kleinjan Begins Service
Dr. Jonathan Kleinjan (SDARL IX), an SDSU Extension Agronomist, was recently appointed to the SDARL Board of Directors, replacing Dr. Robert Thaler (SDARL III), whose …
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