Selection Criteria Guidelines

Content

Nebraska LEAD Fellows typically range in age from 25 to 55 and represent a diverse cross-section of Nebraska agriculture and rural communities.

Applicants are evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Nebraska Residency – Preference is given to applicants who have been Nebraska residents for at least three years immediately prior to applying.
  • Leadership Potential – Demonstrated leadership experience, involvement in community, industry, civic, or organizational activities, and the ability to positively influence others.
  • Commitment to Agriculture & Rural Communities – Understanding of and dedication to issues impacting Nebraska agriculture and rural areas.
  • Program Commitment – Willingness and ability to devote the time, energy and financial resources necessary for full participation in the program.
  • Participation & Engagement – Ability to actively contribute to seminars, discussions, assigned readings, written work and other learning experiences.
  • Support System – Evidence that family members, employers, business partners, or others affected by the applicant’s participation understand and support the program’s time commitments.
  • Program Policies – Commitment to abide by all policies, rules and expectations established by the Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council.

Additional Requirements

  • Participants should expect to devote approximately 28 days during the first year and 33 days during the second year to seminars and study travel experiences, in addition to travel time and preparation.
  • Most seminars are scheduled Thursday–Saturday or Sunday–Tuesday.
  • Members of the same immediate family may not participate in the program simultaneously. Immediate family includes spouses, parents, children and siblings.
  • Members of the Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council Board of Directors and committees, as well as their immediate family members, are not eligible to participate while serving in those roles.
Nebraska LEAD 40 Fellows pose for a group photo at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center.

It is the policy of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln not to discriminate based upon age, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, gender, sex, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, religion or political affiliation.