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.