Your Journey Starts Here
Now Accepting Applications
Applications for the next Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program cohort are officially open. Deadline: July 20, 2026
Thinking about applying? Start here.
Attend a Virtual Informational Meeting
Considering applying? Join us for a candid overview of the program experience, expectations, and impact. We’ll walk through the structure, time commitment, and application process so you can determine if IALP is the right next step for you.
Who Should
Apply
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Individuals aged 25- 55 that work in agriculture, agribusiness, education, policy, or rural development
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Are passionate about shaping the future of Illinois agriculture
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Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to service
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Are ready to invest in their personal and professional growth
PROGRAM SNAPSHOT
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Class of 2028: Nov 2026–Mar 2028
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Seminars: Local, national, and international experiences
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Focus: Leadership, policy, economics, communication, global ag
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Cohort Size: Approximately 30 participants
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Program fee: $4,500 (pay in full or 4 installments)
APPLICATION PROCESS
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Apply by July 20, 2026
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Download sample application questions to prepare
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Complete the online application (must be completed in one session)
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Submit contact information for references
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Participate in an in-person interview
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​Notification of acceptance
Program Schedule Overview
2026
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1. Welcome to the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation Program Class of 2028
November 18, 2026: 12:00 pm-1:00 pm
Virtual Class Kickoff
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2. Joyce Watson Leadership Orientation Seminar
December 2-4, 2026 (Chairman’s Dinner is start of the program at 5:00 pm on December 2)
Orientation & Torch of Leadership Event
Location: Bloomington/Normal
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3. 1:1 Coaching Session with Working Genius
December/January: 30-45 minutes
Location: Virtual-You will choose your date
2027
4. ​Communication Excellence Seminar
January 13-15, 2027
Location: Southern Illinois, Carbondale
5. The Maschhoffs, LLC State Government Seminar
February 17-18, 2027
Location: Springfield
6. National Study Seminar
March 22-26, 2027
Washington D.C.
7. Kim Morton Agricultural Policy Seminar
April 7-8, 2027
Location: Champaign – College of ACES at U of I
OPTIONAL in APRIL:
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Class of 2027 Graduation in Bloomington, April 2
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Meet Your Mentor
8. Whole Health & Resilient Leadership Seminar, Supported by Compeer Financial
May 12, 2027, 12:00 pm-1:00 pm
Location: Virtual
9. ​Martin L. Andreas Energy, Sustainability, & Ecosystems Seminar, Supported by Lumpkin Foundation
June 9-11, 2027
Location: Mattoon
10. Communication Agent Practice
July-Independent Study
Location: Virtual
11. GROWMARK Global Challenges Seminar
August 4-5, 2027
Location: St. Louis
12. Book Debrief
October 13, 2027: 12:00 pm-1:00 pm
Location: Virtual Session
13. Business Decision Making Seminar
November 21-23, 2027** or November 18-19
Location: Northwestern OR Curated Session
No Seminar in December
2028
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14. Richard Ryan Economics & the Marketplace Seminar
January 12-13, 2028
Location: Chicago – Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago
15. Innovation, Technology, and AI Seminar-Endowed by Farm Credit Illinois
February 9-11, 2028
Location: Moline
16. Ron and Melanie Warfield International Perspectives Seminar
March 1-2, 2028
Location: Champaign – College of ACES at U of I
17. International Study Seminar
March (10-14 days)-Tentative hold of March 11-22
Location: TBA
18. Graduation & Commencement Seminar, Supported by Compeer Financial
April 7, 2028
Location: Bloomington (Epiphany Farms)
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***All dates and details are subject to change.
CONNECT WITH IALF
Applications for the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program are currently open.
If you’re exploring the opportunity or want to stay informed, you can join our prospective fellow mailing list.​​​​​​​
Know someone who would be a strong fit for IALP? Recommend a candidate and help identify emerging leaders who are ready to shape the future of Illinois agriculture.​​​​​​