You want to lead with confidence, but finding the right training, mentors, and network can be hard. Indiana Farm Bureau’s L.E.A.D. program (cohort-based, offered every other year in odd-numbered years) guides members through practical leadership development, real-world advocacy, awareness of agricultural issues, and statewide connections, so you can make an impact in your community, at the Statehouse, and beyond.
Who it’s for?
INFB members who want to enhance leadership skills, build a professional network, and better understand the socioeconomic forces shaping agriculture.
Status
The application period for the 2025 L.E.A.D. class is closed. The next application period opens January 2027. Submit your name or nominate someone to be the first to learn when applications open.
What You’ll Gain
- Leadership skills that stick – workshops, coaching, and applied practice
- Policy & advocacy fluency – understand how decisions get made and how to influence them
- Professional network – expand your connections across Indiana agriculture
- Broader ag knowledge – deepen your understanding of the industry and its impacts
- Opportunity to travel - across Indiana along with a trip to another state
Meet the 2025 L.E.A.D. Cohort
Shalyn Nelson
Putnam County
Eugenia Badger
Clark County
Michael Lash
Orange County
Kendall Eads
Harrison County
Sarah Froderman
Boone County
Jeff Whitehouse
Spencer County
Emma Swainston
Bartholomew County
2025 Session Calendar
Selected participants must attend all sessions.
Session | Dates (2025) | Focus |
| Session 1 – Leading Yourself | April 11–12 | Personal leadership & INFB immersion |
| Session 2 – Leading through Advocacy | May 15–16 | Policy process, advocacy toolkit, issue briefings, meetings with elected officials |
| Session 3 – Leading by Communicating | June 19–21 | Message development, media & presentation skills |
| Session 4 – Leading by Exploring | Aug. 25–29 | National perspective, agencies, partners and fun |
| Graduation – Indiana Ag Gathering | Dec. 12–13 | Capstone recognition |
Applications closed: Mar 7, 2025.
Notifications: on/before Mar 21, 2025
Eligibility, Class Size & Expectations
- Membership & age: Paid INFB member in good standing and 21+ by the first session (April 2025 for the current class).
- Class size: Up to 10 participants per cohort.
- Attendance: Class attendance is a priority; missing a session disqualifies participants from the trip and graduation at the Indiana Ag Gathering. Work/school excusal letters available upon request.
- Role restrictions: Current YF&AP State Committee, Women’s Leadership Committee, INFB Board of Directors, or INFB staff must obtain prior approval from the Leadership Development Coordinator to apply. Previous members of these groups are eligible and encouraged. Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance staff may apply with approval from their direct supervisor.
Cost & Support
- Covered by INFB: Hotels, meals, airline travel (when applicable), and program fees.
- Participant fee: $250 (covers materials and additional accommodations), due in full before Session 1.
- Transportation: Participants must hold a valid driver’s license and provide their own transportation to all in-state sessions (mileage is not reimbursable).
Selection Process (Next cycle opens Jan 2027)
- Applications are reviewed and scored by a panel after the close date.
- INFB staff share next steps and notify applicants of selection status within two weeks of the close date.
Contact
Questions about eligibility, timing, or the next cohort? Contact:
Dustin Homan, Leadership Development Coordinator
