By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation (WFBF) has chosen 15 agricultural professionals for its 2027 Leadership Institute, a year-long program designed to strengthen leadership skills and prepare participants to become effective advocates for agriculture.
“It is important that farmers and agriculturists step up as advocates for their farms and agribusinesses,” said WFBF Senior Director of Member Relations Wendy Volkert.
“The Leadership Institute equips participants with the skills and confidence to shape the future of farming and agriculture, both within their county Farm Bureau and in their broader communities,” Volkert added.
The program includes five multi-day sessions focused on agricultural issues, leadership development, public speaking and professional networking. Participants will also have opportunities to engage with Farm Bureau staff and government officials at both the state and national levels.
The program will conclude with a trip to Washington, D.C., alongside the WFBF Board of Directors in March 2028.
Members of the 2027 WFBF Leadership Institute class:
- Kenny Ballmer — Janesville
- Jenna Breitenfeldt — Wausau
- Andrea Edquist — Kenosha
- Matthew Fischer — Owen
- Kelly Green — Elroy
- Paige Hampton — Glen Haven
- Katie Kracht — Newton
- Steve Mueller — New Richmond
- Darren Riskedal — Johnson Creek
- Austin Sandmire — North Freedom
- Jackie Seelow — Glen Haven
- Savannah Sinkula — Hobart
- J. Wells — Sparta
- Beth Wells — Sparta
- Jaclyn Wuthrich — Monroe
Members interested in applying for the 2029 class can contact Wendy Volkert at 608-828-5719 or wvolkert@wfbf.com.
Photo Credit: wisconsin-farm-bureau
Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy