By Blake Jackson
The University of Wisconsin-River Falls recently hosted high school students from throughout the region for the 2025 PDP STRIDE Youth Leadership Conference on Nov. 12.
Now in its fourth year, the conference held annually at rotating locations by Professional Dairy Producers - provided an engaging environment for students interested in developing leadership skills and exploring future paths in agriculture and the dairy sector.
A total of 45 students from Wisconsin and Minnesota participated in the full-day event, which combined leadership training with practical, hands-on lab sessions.
The conference opened with a keynote presentation from Michael Hoffman, founder of Igniting Performance, Inc., who delivered an energetic session aimed at helping students build confidence, enhance communication, and strengthen foundational leadership abilities.
Hoffman noted that many students arrive with some presentation experience, often through groups like FFA, but this event allows for a deeper dive into essential communication tools. “We’re taking this opportunity to fill in the nooks and crannies of some of the communication skills we don’t think about as often,” Hoffman said.
“Why it’s important for us to hold our hands a certain way, enter a room a certain way, handshake or make eye contact a certain way. I try to add a little bit of the psychology behind that, how to come across more confident and competent.”
Students also visited the Mann Valley Laboratory Farm at UWRF for hands-on activities. One lab taught attendees how to measure a calf’s height and weight and compare the results to standard growth charts to assess development.
The program included a fast-paced career connections session where students met individually with professionals in areas such as welding, veterinary medicine, nutrition, and farming. Students also had the chance to tour the UW-River Falls campus and learn about academic programs and involvement opportunities.
Caylee Seedorf, a junior from Perham, Minn., attended to explore campus life and grow her skills. “It’s been super interactive,” Seedorf said. “Normally, I don’t like to get out of my shell, but everyone is participating and it has been really fun.”
“PDP STRIDE grows with its students,” said Cassandra Strupp, program manager with Professional Dairy Producers. “Each year introduces fresh concepts that build on what they’ve already learned, allowing them to stretch their abilities and discover new possibilities.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-steve-baccon
Categories: Wisconsin, Education