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Ag leadership program accepting applications through April 15Kansas The Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership program will accept applications through April 15 from state residents interested in participating in KARL's 2009-11 Class X. The two-year program includes study tours, as well as monthly, 48-hour seminars at sites across the state, said KARL director Jack Lindquist. The program schedules its two national seminars and a "capstone" international tour for November to March--production agriculture's "off season" in Kansas. "KARL alumni and current class members both have gone out of their way to tell me that the 50-day commitment (over two years) is much more than just well worth the investment. It's needed in today's changing and competitive environment," he said. Terry Hobbs of Graham County said, "The KARL program has always fascinated me. Its positive direction and the doors it has opened for many leaders in the ag industry haven been and continue to be very beneficial. The program builds and strengthens individuals' character. In the bigger picture, these individuals can then be mortar and building blocks for making our state and nation even stronger." Class X will begin its training in August with a weekend retreat. To be considered for that class, applicants must submit a completed profile form. They can get the form from the Web at www.karlprogram.com/ or the KARL office at 785-532-6300. KARL's board of directors will screen the profiles and select the top 45 applicants to be scheduled for interviews in May. The program will announce its new 30-member Class X on June 1. The criteria for eligibility are leadership experience and a devotion to Kansas agriculture and rural communities, Lindquist said. But, "dedication to a more positive future is key to being selected." Tuition for the not-for-profit training program is $1,500 per year or a total of $3,000. KARL donors pay the remainder of the expenses, valued at $15,000 per person. Lindquist said more details about what the curriculum will include and/or how to become a KARL supporter are also available by accessing the organization's website or calling 785-532-6300.
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