318 Biochemistry Hall, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0763
"To prepare and motivate men and women in agriculture for more effective leadership"
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Mission Statement
Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council, Inc.
The Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council, Inc., accomplishes its mission
through the Nebraska LEAD Program. Initiated in 1981, the Nebraska LEAD
Program prepares leaders to deal with the many challenges that exist today
and in the future.
Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council, Inc.
Nebraska is one of the top agricultural states in the nation. It ranks first or second in production of many important agricultural commodities. Building on its successful history, Nebraska agriculture must prepare agrriculturalists with a strong knowledge base, relevant exposures and experiences, and important leadership and social skills necessary to respond to the major challenges facing our state.
- Traditionally, production and management abilities of Nebraska agriculturalists have been perfected with experience, education, and the desire to be more competitive and productive. Still, few have been challenged to consider the world beyond agriculture and its need for leadership.
- Educationally, many agriculturalists are well equipped with scientific knowledge and technical skills. However, the need exists for enhanced knowledge of government, economics, social and cultural trents, and other issues affecting their livelihood.
- Agriculturally, Nebraska is diverse; extremes in soil, climate, rainfall and topography bring about different agricultral practices, marketing and production philosophy. This diversity presents leadership challenges, opportunities and the need for common ground and understanding.
- Politically, influence has declined as population continues to shift from a rural to urban livelihood. Our population is becoming generations removed from an agricultural background. Agricultural leadership will need to be more sophisticated and intuitive with values that call for the highest in ethical behavior.
- Economically, global interdependence is increasing at an astonishing rate. Many of our world's critical problems interface directly with agriculture--food supplies, trade, natural resources. We must develop leaders with essential knowledge and understanding in a global context.
- Tomorrow's leaders must value diversity in society and business, and possess a respect for the positive aspects of our history and heritage. They will need a greater breadth and depth of knowledge and skills.
That is the mission of the Nebraska LEAD Program...to prepare agricultural leaders.
