By Maggie Edwards

From visiting decision-makers in Washington, D.C., to deep-diving into Alabama Farmers Federation dynamics, Agricultural Leaders For Alabama (A.L.F.A. Leaders) has transformed the lives of 16 participants.

A.L.F.A. Leaders Class V concluded its journey during the Federation’s 101st annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 5. The class was announced in December 2019.

“Besides networking with my fellow classmates and Federation staff, one of the most important parts was the seminars,” said graduate Dillon Turk, who manages his family’s Martin’s Nursery in Mobile County. “Each of our six seminars focused on a different aspect, from politics to personal development. We came out of each seminar having learned something about ourselves or ways to identify and solve problems.”

Turk’s fellow classmates included farmers, Extension agents, agriscience educators, business owners and more, each bringing unique qualities and backgrounds to the table.

Participants ages 25-45 were trained in agricultural policy, industry leadership and communications. Class V benefited from six intensive seminars revolving around Federation operations, state and national government, Alabama agriculture and successful leadership. An agricultural leadership experience in the United Kingdom rounded out their sessions.

Federation President Jimmy Parnell hailed the program, which has cultivated local, state and national farm and government leaders.

“We are proud to invest in these young leaders,” Parnell said. “We see the impact A.L.F.A. Leaders and similar programs have had on our organization. This time and financial investment will pay dividends for decades to come.”

Interacting with policymakers and American Farm Bureau Federation staff in the nation’s capital opened class graduate Lucy Edwards’ eyes to the Federation’s influence nationwide. 

“There is a powerful relationship between the Federation and elected officials in D.C.,” said Edwards, an Extension coordinator sponsored by Houston County Farmers Federation. “These leaders really took time to engage with us and learn more about issues Alabama farmers are facing.”

A.L.F.A. Leaders Class V also participated in a capstone project centered around increasing involvement in FarmPAC, the Federation’s political action committee focused on state endorsements. They presented a proposal to Federation leaders during the organization’s annual meeting.

Rachel Chastain, a farmer and agriscience educator at Helen Keller School in Talladega County, said the program fine-tuned her public speaking skills.

“When we have elected officials come through my school, I have a platform that allows me to be an education advocate and an agricultural advocate,” she said. “This class helped give me the confidence and skills I needed to better educate others.”

Turk, Edwards and Chastain agree A.L.F.A Leaders changed their lives. 

“This program helped open my eyes to the bigger picture of agriculture and advocating for the industry,” Chastain said. “I also learned how inclusive the Federation is. Whether you are an agriscience teacher or a row cropper, there is a place for you.”

Turk said the time commitment — six weeklong sessions — was worth the sacrifice.

“It is time away from work and family, but it is beneficial to you, whether you’re an agribusinessman or farmer,” Turk said. “Most importantly, I’ll work with, for and around these 15 folks throughout the rest of my life.”