Leadership Sorghum Class VIII Launch
Selection Process
The United Sorghum Checkoff Program is accepting applications for Leadership Sorghum Class VIII, a program designed to cultivate the next generation of sorghum leaders.
Following the Leadership Sorghum application deadline, all complete applications and references will be reviewed by a committee comprised of Sorghum Checkoff board members and alumni of the Leadership Sorghum program. Finalists may be contacted via telephone to arrange an interview. Class members and alternates will be notified of acceptance.
Eligibility
– Participants must be actively engaged in sorghum production.
– An applicant who is actively engaged in sorghum production (if employed by an operation must have employer approval).
– ALL are encouraged to apply.
– Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Apply now to leadership sorghum!
Leadership Sorghum Program Policies
Leadership Sorghum Class VIII Reference Form
Leadership Sorghum Class VIII Spouse Support Form
Leadership Sorghum Class VIII Acceptance Form
All materials, including completed application and reference forms must be received by close of business (5:00 pm CST) Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Leadership Sorghum Class VIII Schedule
Session One: September 14-16, 2026 – Global Sorghum Conference – Lubbock, TX
Session Two: December 8-10, 2026 – USCP Board Meeting – Lubbock, TX
Session Three: March 3-5, 2027
Session Four: August 2027
Session Five: December 2027
PROGRAM MISSION
Leadership Sorghum seeks to develop the next generation of leaders for the sorghum industry.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
- Recruit new leadership and prepare participants interested in pursuing leadership roles within the sorghum industry.
- Expose participants to and educate them about the sorghum industry.
BUILDING GRASSROOTS
Leadership Sorghum prepares sorghum farmers to be advocates for sorghum and agriculture on a local, regional and national platform. To date, Leadership Sorghum has resulted in 103 farmer-leaders from 18 different states. Leadership Sorghum alumni also are more involved within state and national organizations and committees as a result of the program.
INDUSTRY GAINS
Leadership is vital to the success of any industry, and Leadership Sorghum provides the necessary resources to lead our industry in the future. The Leadership Sorghum program has facilitated growers from 18 states who all bring different perspectives to the sorghum industry, including their cropping systems and their own farming operation structure. Leadership Sorghum highlights the Sorghum Checkoff by showcasing where producers’ dollars are being invested and the level of synergy that exists within the sorghum industry.
