Strengthening Leadership Foundations: RLND Seminar 7 Explores State Agriculture and Rural Policies

By Seminar 7 Communications Team Member Melinda Goodman

Day One: A Day of Inspiration, Insight, and Engagement

On January 15, we gathered in Bismarck, ND, to kick off Seminar 7, focusing on State Leadership within Agriculture and Rural Policies. The day was rich with discussions, workshops, and reflections centered on the key themes of passion, civil discourse, and procedural effectiveness. Here’s a detailed recap of the impactful day:

Morning Inspiration

We began the day with remarks from Secretary of State Michael Howe, who shared his perspective on the importance of civic engagement. He reminded us that progress starts with simply showing up and emphasized the critical role his office plays in supporting citizenship, voting, and new business development. Secretary Howe left us with a poignant thought: in a world where negativity often prevails, we must focus on building people up instead of tearing them down.

Following Secretary Howe, Melissa Henke, Chief Medical Officer of the Heartview Foundation, delivered an inspiring address on battling substance use disorders. She shared her passion for providing tools and resources to combat addiction, reducing stigma, and reshaping perceptions of recovery. Dr. Henke highlighted the importance of supporting individuals struggling with addiction to help them rejoin their families, communities, and workplaces as productive and fulfilled members.

Practical Tools for Leadership

The afternoon shifted to hands-on learning with a session led by Andrea Bowman, NDSU Extension Leadership and Civic Engagement Program Coordinator. She equipped us with practical tools for effective meeting governance, helping us understand how to lead discussions that are both productive and respectful.

A dynamic panel followed, featuring Amanda Remynse (Greater ND Chamber), Kerri Kraft (Department of Commerce), Erin Oban (USDA Rural Development), and then a followup conversation with Jen Greuel (Heartview Foundation). This group of policy professionals shared their expertise on legislative etiquette, effective lobbying strategies, and how to engage meaningfully in the legislative process. Their diverse perspectives provided actionable insights for navigating policy advocacy as both organizations and individual citizens.

Evening Insights: Civil Discourse and Legislative Leadership

The day concluded with an enlightening panel discussion moderated by Ann Crews-Melton Executive Director of the ND Consensus Council. Panelists included Senator Judy Lee, Senator Paul Thomas, and Representative Jayme Davis, who shared their experiences and philosophies on civil discourse within the legislative process.

The panelists emphasized the importance of listening to diverse perspectives, legislating for the benefit of all citizens—not just their constituents—and seeking common ground. They reminded us that true leadership lies in respectful dialogue and adhering to the rules of decorum. Interestingly, they pointed out that much of the divisiveness we perceive stems from social media and public rhetoric, not from within the legislature itself. They encouraged us to get involved, share accurate information, and participate actively in the policymaking process.

Key Takeaways

Throughout the day, we were reminded of the importance of leaning into our passions and championing the causes we believe in. Whether it’s substance abuse recovery, legislative advocacy, or fostering better civic engagement, the speakers and panelists underscored the power of showing up, having respectful conversations, and working collaboratively for the common good.

Thank you to all the speakers, panelists, and participants who made Seminar 7, Day One an unforgettable experience. Your dedication and insights continue to inspire our collective journey in leadership development.

Day 2: An Immersive Experience

Day 2 of our Seminar 7 session in Bismarck provided an immersive experience into the workings of state government, offering valuable insights into leadership, policymaking, and collaboration. From committee hearings to meeting with state leaders, the day was filled with opportunities to witness and engage with the decision-making processes shaping North Dakota’s future.

Morning at the Capitol

The day began with participants attending committee hearings on key topics, including transportation, agriculture, corrections, behavioral health, public instruction, and natural resources. Discussions spanned a wide range of issues, such as nuclear energy, funding for agricultural food distribution programs, and budget appropriations for agencies like NDSU Extension and the Department of Corrections.

Meeting with Governor Kelly Armstrong

A highlight of the day was a meeting with Governor Kelly Armstrong, who shared his perspective on the legislative session. The Governor emphasized his budget priorities and his commitment to finding solutions that work for all North Dakotans. His message echoed the day’s recurring theme: collaboration and problem-solving in leadership.

Leadership Insights from Legislators

The group also met with Majority Leaders Senators Hogue and Klein and Representative Lefor, who discussed their leadership roles and approaches to representing their constituents.

• Senator Hogue reminded us that good leadership requires sustained effort and dedication.
• Representative Lefor stressed the importance of passion, constructive criticism (focusing on ideas rather than people), and the hard work necessary to achieve results.
• All three emphasized the value of trusting experts, being transparent, and actively listening to ensure they address the needs of all North Dakotans.

Their insights highlighted the importance of diligence and collaboration, particularly in the fast-paced 80-day legislative session.

Observing Government in Action

Participants toured the Capitol, observed the gaveling in of the House and Senate, and gained firsthand experience of North Dakota’s legislative processes.

Legislative Social

The evening concluded with a Legislative Social hosted by the Rural Leadership ND Alumni Association. This event brought together current and past RLND classes, policymakers, and legislators from across the state. The gathering celebrated shared experiences, fostered connections, and reinforced the importance of relationships in effective leadership. Dr. Lynette Flage, Associate Director of NDSU Extension, captured the spirit of the day perfectly:

“We all get dressed up, we are excited to share our ideas and wins, bring our best stories, and hear from our friends and colleagues as we all take part in North Dakota’s citizen legislature.”

Key Takeaways

Day 2 reinforced the importance of:

• Collaboration and consensus-building.
• Passion for issues combined with constructive dialogue.
• Trusting experts, being transparent, and listening actively.

Together, we witnessed leadership in action and gained invaluable insights to carry forward in our own journeys.

Day 3: An engaging mix of global preparation, policy discussions, and cultural exploration, wrapping up our time in Bismarck on a high note.

 Morning Networking and International Trip Prep

We started the day by connecting with past RLND alumni, who shared their insights and advice for the upcoming international trip to Ghana. From practical packing tips to reminders to sleep on the plane and savor every moment, their words emphasized making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Alumni encouraged participants to try all the food, explore every corner, and immerse themselves fully in the culture and the moment.

Continued Ag Policy Discussion

The day included an impactful panel discussion on animal agriculture policy featuring:

• Doug Goehring, ND Agriculture Commissioner
• Dr. Ethan Andress, State Veterinarian and Animal Health Division Director
• Dan Rovig, past ND Stockmen's Association president
• Jerry Doan, Black Leg Ranch owner and former RLND Council Chair

These leaders discussed the diverse strengths of ND’s agriculture, which boasts 54 commodities and 13 microclimates, and its global trade impact, particularly in Southeast Asia. Key highlights included:

• ND’s leadership in purebred livestock and industry scope and scale with cattle outnumbering population 2:1. 
• The critical role of appropriate policy in supporting jobs, sustainable practices, and economic growth that balances issues around zoning, tax and ownership structure, along with issues related to regulation and protection.
• Challenges like grassland loss, which Jerry Doan likened to the loss of rainforests, emphasizing their importance for carbon capture, wildlife, and sustainable livestock systems.

Jerry’s closing remarks were a call to action: “We need to share our stories and advocate for programs that sustain agriculture, bring young people back, and preserve our environment.”

Insights on Ghana and West Africa

The morning continued with presentations by LTC Jarrod Simek, State Partnership Program Director for ND National Guard, and Drew Combs, Executive Director of the ND Trade Office.

• Drew provided an overview of Ghana’s political, trade, and economic landscape, highlighting its status as the most stable democracy in Africa, its growing infrastructure, and its role as a hub for agriculture, energy, and mining.
• Jarrod focused on security interests in West Africa and the vital role of the ND National Guard in maintaining stability. Both shared practical tips on culture, personal safety, and what to expect during the trip.

A Taste of Ghana

Lunch featured authentic Ghanaian cuisine catered by Mama J’s, including fufu, jollof rice, and beef. This delicious experience gave participants a preview of the flavors and culinary traditions they’ll encounter in Ghana.

Key Takeaways of the Day:

• Be prepared to embrace every aspect of the Ghana experience.
• ND agriculture’s diversity and global impact require smart, sustainable policy.
• Sharing our stories is vital to ensuring the future of agriculture.

This seminar was a reminder of the importance of leadership at every level, from global trade to local sustainability. Thank you to everyone who made this week an incredible success!

Thank you to our Seminar Sponsors: Rural Leadership North Dakota Alumni Association, KX News, , Northern Canola Growers Association, ND Pork Council, and Black Leg Ranch!