A new Farm Bureau scholarship program exemplifies the organization’s priority on investing in its members by supporting their enrollment in external leadership-development programs. Scholarships of up to $1,500 will be awarded to regular Farm Bureau members committed to taking part in a leadership-development program — and pledging to apply their newfound skills to benefit their county Farm Bureau. Applicants are limited to one scholarship award per calendar year.
“Leadership development is one of Farm Bureau’s most important functions, and we already provide members with a lot of opportunities for building those skills,” said Sarah Black, MFB’s Director of Business Operations. “Our members have different leadership needs and trajectories, and this is a means of supporting further personalized skill development. Other industries and organizations have also developed great leadership programming, and we feel this scholarship is a way to encourage members to expand their toolbox and then use those skills to improve their county Farm Bureau.”
Programs should be rooted outside of those MFB already offers and align with the leadership objectives and priorities identified by its members: communication, conflict resolution, networking, innovation and engagement techniques for working with consumers and policymakers.
Applicants must provide documentation of their acceptance into the program; proof of payment; and proof of attendance/participation. Lastly, they’ll be expected to visit with MFB communications staff regarding their experience.
Eligible applicants are current Farm Bureau regular members who have recently participated in a county Farm Bureau event, and who commit to applying their newly gained experience and skills by contributing back to their county Farm Bureau.
Annual awards will be administered on a first-come, first-serve basis until budgeted dollars are depleted. Online applications are due by the first of each month; recipients will be notified via email by the 15th after being reviewed by a panel of Michigan Farm Bureau staff.