Advancing Leadership. Strengthening Agriculture. Inspiring the Future.
December 4, 2026 | Bloomington–Normal, IL Illinois State University Alumni Center
What is the Master Class
The future of agriculture will be shaped by leaders who are willing to step up, engage, and take action.
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The Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation (IALF) is proud to launch its inaugural One-Day Master Class, a premier professional development conference designed to bring together Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program (IALP) alumni, current fellows, agricultural professionals, and community leaders for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration.
This unique event will showcase the power of the IALF network by engaging alumni leaders, fostering meaningful cross-generational conversations, and exploring the critical issues shaping the future of agriculture and rural communities.
Purpose
The IALF One-Day Master Class was created to:
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Provide advanced leadership education focused on emerging challenges and opportunities in agriculture and rural communities.
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Engage IALF alumni as subject matter experts, presenters, mentors, and facilitators.
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Create intentional interaction between Illinois agricultural leaders, IALP alumni, and the incoming IALP class.
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Strengthen alumni engagement and foster long-term involvement with the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation.
Who Should Attend?
The Master Class is designed for:
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IALF Alumni
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Incoming IALP Class Participants
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Current IALP Class Participants
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IALF Board Members and Supporters
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Agricultural and Community Leaders
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IALF Stakeholders
Tentative Agenda
8:00 – 8:30 a.m. Check-In & Coffee Chats
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8:30 – 8:50 a.m. Opening Keynote Speaker
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8:50 – 9:15 a.m. Welcome & Greetings
Remarks from IALF Founding President & CEO Joyce Watson and current IALF leadership
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9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Breakout Sessions #1
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10:45 – 11:45 a.m. Breakout Sessions #2
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12:00 – 1:30 p.m. Networking Lunch
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1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Breakout Sessions #3
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2:30 – 3:00 p.m. Closing Session
This is not a traditional conference.
The Master Class is built for conversation, collaboration, and real-world application.
Join Us
The IALF One-Day Master Class is more than a conference—it's an opportunity to reconnect with the IALF community, learn from exceptional leaders, and help shape the future of agriculture in Illinois.
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Whether you are a seasoned alumni leader, a member of the incoming class, or a champion of agricultural leadership, we invite you to be part of this inaugural event and invest in the continued growth of Illinois agriculture.
Questions or need more information? Contact Jenna at jenna@agleadership.org
Thank You to our Sponsors
