BRATTLEBORO, Vt. — An exceptional group of young dairy professionals recently completed the Holstein Foundation’s Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI). Seventy-four participants from across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico graduated from Class 13.

The last phase of the three-part leadership and communication development program took place January 27-30, 2025, in Tampa, Florida. The culmination of the year long program, Class 13 participants continued to build upon skills gained during Phase I and Phase II of the program.

“Throughout the program, I gained invaluable skills in leadership, communication, and time management. The Phase I and III sessions on personality self-assessment, team culture, and consumer communications were especially insightful, helping me better understand my strengths and how to effectively engage with others,” says Class 13 graduate Kierstan Rhodes of California. “Beyond the classroom, the networking opportunities have been incredible—I now have a strong support system of peers and mentors who will remain invaluable resources throughout my career.”

Phase I focused on self-reflection, professional delivery skills, building small habits that last, and networking. During Phase II, participants took their skills home with them as they got involved in leadership positions, gave community presentations, interviewed consumers, and focused on personal growth in six different self-selected areas.

During Phase III, Class 13 participants took part in interactive training sessions with industry experts and dynamic leaders. After reconnecting with classmates on Monday, participants spent Tuesday morning honing their communication skills with media communications advisor Joan Horbiak. That afternoon, Peggy Coffeen, founder of Uplevel Dairy and host of Uplevel Dairy Podcast, led a session focused on what keeps dairy producers up at night.

Bill and Betsy Bullard of Brigeen Farms in Turner, Maine, shared their insights on working together to manage a successful farm and creamery. Bill and Betsy are also YDLI alumni and were recognized with the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Leader award later that evening.

On Wednesday, Mary Knigge, vice president of government relations for Dairy Farmers of America, provided a dairy policy update. Then, Kimmi Devany, Editor for Progressive Dairy magazine, joined Mary to lead an interactive session on dairy policy. That afternoon, Mark Mayfield shared his inspiring message with humor and empathy, providing practical strategies to help manage stress.

YDLI wrapped up on Thursday with a message from Ty Bennett, owner and CEO of the largest Ninja Warrior Gym and founder of Leadership, Inc. His presentation focused on helping leaders cultivate relevance and influence.

About YDLI
Holstein Foundation’s Young Dairy Leaders Institute is a nationally recognized three-phase leadership and communication skills development program for young adults working in the dairy industry. YDLI is truly the Holstein Foundation’s motto in action: developing future leaders for a vibrant dairy community.

Applications for YDLI Class 14 will be available in the Spring of 2025. Young adults interested in attending can sign up to be notified when applications are available at www.holsteinfoundation.org/YDLI/ydli.html.

For more information about YDLI or other Holstein Foundation programs, visit www.holsteinfoundation.org or contact Diedra Harkenrider at dharkenrider@holstein.com.