North Dakota State University Extension’s Rural Leadership North Dakota program is now accepting applications for its 11th class.
NDSU Extension’s Rural Leadership North Dakota program is now accepting applications for its 11th class, Class XI, set to begin in November 2025.
The 18-month leadership development program includes seven in-state seminars, which will feature expert speakers and tours of agricultural and community businesses, as well as three out-of-state trips. Participants will travel to Washington, D.C., and Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 2026 to engage with agricultural, business and government leaders.
Additionally, the class will embark on an international study seminar in 2027 to explore global agricultural and community issues. Previous classes have visited Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama, Thailand, Vietnam, Chile, Spain and Ghana.
Since its inception over 20 years ago, RLND has helped develop agricultural and community leaders across North Dakota.
The RLND program focuses on leadership skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, self-awareness, decision-making, strategic planning and conflict management. Participants gain insights into agricultural and rural policy, economic trends, funding strategies for local development projects, marketing, civic engagement, coalition building, industry advocacy and legislative processes.
“Rural Leadership North Dakota is the premier statewide leadership program in North Dakota,” says Katie Tyler, program director and Extension specialist for RLND. “If you are looking for an opportunity to grow as a leader, broaden your perspective and make a lasting impact on your community and state, we encourage you to apply for Class XI.”
Tuition for Class XI is $4,500, which covers most meals, lodging and travel expenses like bussing for in-state seminars and airfare for out-of-state trips. Participants are responsible for their travel costs to in-state seminars and departure points for out-of-state trips.
The application deadline for RLND Class XI (2025-27) is June 1, 2025. Applicants must have been North Dakota residents for at least one year and be able to attend all seminars.
To apply or nominate someone for RLND Class XI, visit ndsu.ag/rlndapply25, email ndsu.ruralleadership@ndsu.edu or call 701-231-5640. Follow RLND on Facebook for updates and alumni stories.
Since 2003, over 175 people from 87 communities in 41 counties have participated in the RLND program.
