High School Students Learn To Lead the Animal Science Industry
Students from across Kansas and beyond participated in an immersive livestock and leadership learning experience at Kansas State University.
Twenty students gathered on the Kansas State University campus last week to gain livestock industry knowledge and develop leadership skills. These participants comprised a cohort of the 14th annual K-State Animal Sciences Leadership Academy (KASLA) June 21-24 in Manhattan, Kansas.
Hosted by the K-State Department of Animal Sciences and Industry (ASI) and sponsored by the Livestock and Meat Industry Council, the academy’s goal is to develop young leaders within the livestock industry and prepare them for a successful future in this field.
This year’s class included: Joel Abell, Minneapolis; Carson Batterton, Scott City; Kelcy Bergstrom, McPherson; Katherine Bruning, Geneseo; Grace Elliot, Bakersfield, CA; Noah Goss, Kanopolis; Mary Habjan, Linwood; Anniston Henning, Harper; Paityn Jahay, Moundridge; Elyse Louderback, Saint George; Lincoln Martin, Bucklin; Dagan Murray, Auburn; Faith Reinert, Esbon; Jacob Reisig, Lewistown, MT; CadiJohn Rivera, Lincoln, NE; Josi Schrader, Wells; Shelby Smith, Fredonia; Casey Stevens, Zephyr, TX; Corbin Winkle, Hillsboro, OH; Maddie Weaber, Wamego.
During their time at the KASLA, students participated in interactive leadership development and educational lab sessions led by faculty members from across the K-State campus. The KASLA included several livestock industry tours. Students enjoyed tours of university farms and K-State facilities as well. Participants completed the college experience by dining at the K-State Alumni Center, completing the K-State Challenge Course and staying in Marlatt Hall.
For their final project, the students were divided into groups during the week to focus on current issues affecting the livestock industry. Faculty mentors from the K-State ASI assisted each group. Using information they learned throughout the academy, the groups were asked to present their subject as part of the closing reception on the final day. About 100 family, friends and members of the K-State community gathered for the closing reception to honor the graduates and hear their thoughts on these important livestock issues.
You can find out more information about the academy and future programs by visiting Youth Livestock Program. For questions, contact academy director Sharon Breiner at sbreiner@ksu.edu or 785-532-6533.