By Tanner Hood

The sixth class of the Agricultural Leaders for Alabama (A.L.F.A. Leaders) program was recently announced after a rigorous application and interview process. Eighteen participants will join the ranks of Alabama Farmers Federation county presidents, board members, legislators and leaders at local, state and national levels whose involvement grew through the premier leadership experience. 

A.L.F.A. Leaders is sponsored by the Federation and sharpens the skills of agricultural community leaders by focusing on personal development, political involvement, effective communication and understanding of the Federation.

“We’re proud to offer a program that strengthens the abilities of young agricultural leaders in our state,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell, a graduate of the Alabama Agriculture and Forestry Leadership Development Program, a forerunner to A.L.F.A. Leaders. “We want to continue developing leaders who serve in important Federation roles and in positions to help our state and nation.”

The program begins in September and will conclude with a capstone project presentation and graduation at the 2025 Farm & Land Expo. Class VI participants will train in agricultural policy, industry leadership, communication and organizational involvement at six seminars in Alabama, Washington, D.C. and a to-be-determined international location. 

Participants were chosen by an independent selection committee comprised of former class members; Alabama Agriculture and Forestry Leadership Development Program graduates; and stakeholders with a vested interest in agricultural leadership development. 

Selection was based on community involvement, personal ability and individual characteristics.

The program is designed for participants ages 25 to 45 who demonstrate leadership qualities and potential, in addition to strong character, reputation and a sound personal life, said Federation Young Farmers Division Director Hunter McBrayer.

“This class is a testament to the strong agricultural leadership found in Alabama,” said McBrayer, an A.L.F.A. Leaders Class IV graduate who now coordinates the program. “We’re excited to help them on their paths to becoming stronger leaders and servants in their communities and Alabama as a whole.”