WM Rural Leadership Academy

What is the Western Maryland Rural Leadership Academy?

Do you want to improve your agriculture business skills? The new Western Maryland Rural Leadership Academy can help you!

In today’s busy lifestyle, it’s easy to work so hard with your job, your farm, and your family that you lose sight of larger issues. It is difficult to succeed on your own—rural residents of all ages can benefit from being more connected in their community.

As a participant in the academy, you will learn important leadership skills. You will have the opportunity to learn about your civic duties, visit area organizations and businesses, and serve as an intern on a local organizational board. Program Details: The academy starts this fall and is a one-year program.

The application fee of $50 is due upon acceptance to the academy. Members will cover costs to get to in-county sessions and carpool sites. Food and other travel will be provided.

Based on the majority of the members’ availability, a schedule of monthly events will be developed. The program is open to ages 16 and up. Diversity in age, backgrounds, and experiences is welcomed.

A “Big Trip” is the highlight of the academy. Members will take a trip to Annapolis to tour state government and meet with legislators. Members will also explore the Delmarva peninsula to get a broader understanding of statewide agriculture and natural resource operations.

Funding for the Academy comes from a grant from the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension, application fees, and local organization and business sponsorships. To become a sponsor, please contact Willie Lantz at 301-334-6960.

Details about the academy can be found and applications are available at the Garrett County Extension office, at http://garrett.umd.edu or by calling 301-334-6960.

For more information, contact Willie Lantz

Last updated: 03/10/2009