University of Kentucky, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Over 40 high school seniors participated in the Institute for Future Agricultural Leaders (IFAL) Program at the University of Kentucky. This five-day conference, hosted by the Kentucky Farm Bureau, focuses on leadership development and explores career opportunities in agriculture. Students engaged in field trips and networking activities, gaining insights into agricultural career paths. Additionally, Kentucky State University announced a new agriculture-STEM education program aimed at K-12 students, highlighting the ongoing commitment to agricultural education in the region.
Lexington – Over 40 Kentucky High School Seniors Attend Annual Agriculture Leadership Conference at University of Kentucky
More than 40 high school seniors from across Kentucky participated in the Institute for Future Agricultural Leaders (IFAL) Program, which took place at the University of Kentucky for five days this summer. This year marks the 40th anniversary of this annual event, hosted by the Kentucky Farm Bureau, focusing on leadership development and career opportunities in agriculture.
The IFAL Program, selecting up to 45 students each year, aims to provide high school students with insight into college life, potential career paths in agriculture, and essential leadership skills. Attendees engaged in various activities including field trips, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities with current college students in agricultural studies.
This year’s event was organized by the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment at the University of Kentucky. Participants took part in discussions about diverse agricultural careers, which are crucial for sustaining food production and textiles in the region.
Among the rising seniors was Bethany Barber, who expressed an interest in majoring in pharmaceutical sciences with a minor in chemistry. Similarly, Tate Milburn plans to pursue a career in law, focusing on agriculture-related issues. He underscored the vital role that lawyers and lobbyists play in advocating for farmers and strengthening rural communities.
In addition to the leadership conference, Laura Stephenson was announced as the new dean of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Her experience includes extensive leadership roles at the University of Tennessee and over 20 years within the University of Kentucky’s Cooperative Extension Service.
The commitment to agricultural education extends beyond the conference. Kentucky State University received a grant to set up an agriculture-STEM education program aimed at K-12 students. This initiative will provide short lectures and hands-on demonstrations on agriculture and aquaculture, working in collaboration with regional high schools and various partner organizations.
Other notable events included Congressman Andy Barr’s academy sendoff for seven Kentuckians nominated to military academies, and the recognition of Sandy Boyken and Debbie Smith, who received honorary degrees from the Future Farmers of America for their contributions to the organization. Additionally, at a conference attended by over 8,000 people, the Technology Student Association honored Jennifer Williams as the Middle School Adviser of the Year.
Furthermore, the Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program (KALP) is currently seeking participants for its two-year leadership experience designed for young agricultural producers and agribusiness professionals. This initiative aims to empower participants through comprehensive leadership development training.
As the importance of agriculture continues to grow in Kentucky, programs like IFAL and KALP play an essential role in fostering the next generation of leaders in the agricultural sector.
FAQ
What is the Institute for Future Agricultural Leaders (IFAL) Program?
The IFAL Program is an annual leadership conference held for high school seniors in Kentucky, focusing on exposing students to college life and career opportunities in agriculture.
How long does the IFAL Program last?
The conference runs for five days during the summer.
Who hosts the IFAL Program?
The program is hosted by the Kentucky Farm Bureau and is now in its 40th year.
What activities are included in the IFAL Program?
Activities include field trips, networking opportunities with college agriculture students, and leadership development sessions.
What is the goal of the Kentucky State University (KSU) agriculture-STEM education program?
The KSU program aims to provide K-12 students with hands-on experiences and knowledge about agriculture and aquaculture through lectures and demonstrations.
Key Features of the IFAL Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | Five days during the summer |
| Host | Kentucky Farm Bureau |
| Location | University of Kentucky |
| Participants | Up to 45 rising high school seniors |
| Main Activities | Field trips, networking, leadership development |
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Additional Resources
- Lex 18: Students Explore Careers in Agriculture at Leadership Conference
- Wikipedia: Agriculture in the United States
- Kentucky.com: Agriculture Education
- Google Search: Agricultural leadership programs
- Morning Ag Clips: Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program
- Google Scholar: Agricultural Leadership
- Farmonaut: Empowering Black Farmers in Kentucky
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Agriculture
- News Enterprise: UK-KFB Program Develops Future Ag Leaders
- Google News: Kentucky agriculture leadership
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