Application and Nomination

Nomination a Leader for the next RLND Class!

Do you know someone who should be a part of a dedicated and talented network of leaders across our great state?
Nominate them to be part of the next RLND class.

Apply for Rural Leadership North Dakota (RLND)

The application window for Class X is March 21 - June 1, 2025.

Why Apply?

RLND develops leaders who make a lasting impact on their communities and industries. Through hands-on experiences, professional networking, and leadership training, participants gain valuable skills that enhance their careers and community involvement.  The cost to each participant is $4,500. Since the total cost for each participant to complete RLND is around $16,000, investments from alumni, stakeholders and grants help offset the cost to the participants. 

Employer Benefits

Investing in an employee’s participation in Rural Leadership North Dakota (RLND) is an investment in the future of your organization. RLND participants gain practical leadership skills, a broader professional network, and fresh, innovative ideas—all of which directly benefit their workplace.

Through the program, participants develop:
✅ Enhanced leadership abilities – Stronger decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
✅ Expanded professional connections – Access to a statewide network of leaders in agriculture, business, and community development.
✅ Greater community engagement – A deeper understanding of rural challenges and opportunities, leading to more effective leadership in local and industry settings.

Employers who support RLND participants often see increased employee confidence, stronger team dynamics, and fresh perspectives that contribute to organizational success. Join the many businesses, organizations, and agencies that have benefited from RLND graduates!

Application Process

Eligibility

RLND is open to individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries who are passionate about leadership and community development. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to personal growth, civic engagement, and making a difference in North Dakota.

How to Apply

1. Complete the Online Application, which consists of three separate forms and requires uploading your resume.
   1. Submit your Application by June 1, 2025
2. Send the Recommendation Form to two references. If you are self-employed, please send to three references.
3. If you are not self-employed: your employer will need to sign and complete the Employer Support Agreement and a Recommendation Form. An agreement and recommendation will be emailed directly to your employer using the information you provide on the General Application.
4. Prepare for an Interview (see details below)

Selection Process

All applicants will participate in an in-person interview at a regional location. The interview is an opportunity for us to learn more about you, your leadership experiences, and your aspirations—while also ensuring the RLND program is the right fit for your journey.

Each RLND Class is carefully selected by the RLND Council after a review of the application and interview, with final approval by the RLND Program Director. Because the program is highly competitive, up to 22 participants are chosen for each class.

Interview Details

• Format: 45-minute interview with a panel of two to four people, including the RLND Program Director, RLND Council Members, RLND Alumni, or the RLND Administrative Assistant.
• What We Will Discuss: Your background, leadership experiences, aspirations, and perspectives on North Dakota’s challenges and opportunities. This is also your chance to ask questions about RLND.
• Dress Code: Business Casual. 

Interview Location & Preferences

Applicants can indicate their preferred interview location and time (AM/PM) in the application. Tentative interview sites for 2025 include:

• June 16 – Jamestown, ND
• June 17 – Bismarck, ND
• June 18 – Dickinson, ND
• June 19 – Watford City, ND
• June 20 – Minot, ND
• June 23 – Fargo, ND
• June 24 – Grand Forks, ND
• June 25 – Devils Lake, ND

Final interview locations will be determined based on applicant distribution. We may reach out to adjust scheduling, and we will confirm your interview day and time as soon as possible!

Employer & Family Support

We understand that leadership development requires time and commitment. If your employer or significant other/family has questions about your involvement, we are happy to discuss the benefits of RLND and answer any concerns.

What Happens Next?

✔️ Applications are reviewed after the deadline.
✔️ Interviews take place in June at selected locations.
✔️ Final selections announced in August 2025 after the RLND Council has made their class selections.
✔️ Class begins in November 2025 with the first seminar!

If you have any questions, please contact Katie Tyler, RLND Program Director at katherine.tyler@ndsu.edu or 701-361-0869.

Program Commitment

Each RLND Class is 18 months long, with no less than 22 days in year one and 24 days in year two of required time and attendance. Your commitment to the program includes attendance at all seminars. There are 7 multi-day seminars held throughout North Dakota, plus three travel seminars: five days in Minneapolis, six-seven days in Washington, D.C., and ten days in a foreign country (plus two travel days). The cost to each participant is $4,500. Since the total cost for each participant is around $16,000, investments from alumni, stakeholders and grants help offset the cost to the participants. 

Each participant is expected to fulfill the following commitments:

• Attend all RLND seminars.
• Assume leadership responsibility during the program to include participating in seminar management teams, helping to coordinate and facilitate learning experiences for their class.
• Complete a Personal Leadership Project that applies their learning to a real-world initiative in their local community or organization.
• Share their RLND and international experience by speaking to groups, organizations, or their community.
• Engage in post-graduate leadership activities to continue making an impact.

All selected participants will be required to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining their commitment to the RLND program. This agreement ensures participants understand the expectations, including those listed above. The MOU reinforces the dedication required to maximize the program’s impact on both the participant and their community.