California Dairy Leaders Program
The Dairy Leaders Mission
To ensure that there will be capable dairy producers who will become strong leaders educated in all aspects of the dairy industry in order to shape a prosperous future for the dairy families of California.
Dairy Leaders Program goals
˛ To develop informed producers who will take leadership roles in the next generation of dairy organizations.
˛ To increase dairy producers’ awareness of and exposure to state and federal legislative and regulatory processes.
˛ To improve understanding of our dairy industry with emphasis on the California milk pricing and pooling system.
˛ To understand and be able to effectively work with media sources in promoting dairy issues.
˛ To expand the horizons of our future leaders by promoting knowledge and appreciation for non-dairy aspects of our society.
The Dairy Leaders Program
The program will consist of regular classes to study issues affecting dairy producers in today’s industry. Topics to be covered in depth include: environmental issues, the state and federal legislative process, dairy pricing and economics, biotechnological developments, marketing and promotion, and public relations skills. Participants will develop a more thorough understanding of our industry and society through communication and team building skills.
Who Should Apply
The program is targeted toward dairy producers who want to develop leadership roles in the California dairy industry. A Dairy Leader participant will be an active member of the community who demonstrates leadership potential. Successful applicants will be from various backgrounds, experiences, and education levels. The one commonality is this: everyone who is accepted will have the desire to improve the California dairy industry.
Requirements
Participants in the Dairy Leaders Program must be able to commit to the following:
˛ Attend all classes in various locations, including Sacramento and Washington, DC.
˛ Provide commitment from dairy owner to allow class time away from the dairy.
˛ Spend time reviewing topical material distributed between class sessions.
˛ Provide own transportation to class locations.
˛ Be actively involved in milk production.
The Selection Process
Applications are accepted in February and March, followed by candidate interviews and final selection. The first session begins in early May. Enrollment for the yearlong program is limited so that we may provide more one-on-one instruction. The program enrollment fee for the entire year is $750, which is to be submitted with the application and requisite letters of recommendation, and must be postmarked by the application deadline.
Program Staff
Dairy Leaders Program participants will be working closely with people who are experts in their field. Each member of the program staff specializes in one aspect of the dairy industry continuum and the first-hand knowledge that is provided will prove invaluable long after the program is complete.
For More Information
To learn more about the Dairy Leaders Program, call Western United Dairymen at (209) 527-6453.