The RLND Program started because several SBARE (State Board of Agriculture Research and Education) heard from people across North Dakota that they needed help with someone taking a leadership role. President Chapman understood that the land grant mission of NDSU is all about sharing information with the people across North Dakota to strengthen communities. The RLND Program is one of many ways NDSU can fulfill the land grant mission.

RLND History * RLND Program part of NDSU Extension Service * RLND Mission: To prepare and develop effective leaders to strengthen North Dakota *Started in 2003, new group of participants every two years

RLND has 143 alumni from seven classes representing78 communities in 38 counties across North Dakota.

RLND Goal No. 1 To create a network of people across the state and beyond that RLND participants will utilize for a lifetime. The goals of the RLND Program help fulfill the mission of the RLND Program.The program has four goals including….the first goal: (read from screen)

RLND Goal No. 2 To strengthen participants’ skills in discovering leaders within, communicating effectively, recognizing gifts and differences, thinking critically and creatively, managing projects, understanding the resource spectrum, understanding North Dakota ag and rural policy, and affecting change – the power of individuals working together.

RLND Goal No. 3 To improve the quality of life for the participant, organization (s) and community.

RLND Goal No. 4 To prepare the participant to work with and implement a project in an organization and/or community.

RLND Project Leadership is about taking action on ideas. Participants select a project they are passionate about. Project impacts participant, organization, industry, community, state. Locate resources to assist in completing project.

Build a playground

Renovate a theater

Recycling program

Community beautification project

Community garden project

Run for office

Community service projects

High School leadership program

Inviting people to farm

Backpack meal project

RLND Project Impacts Over $4.5 million invested in 140+ projects 4 businesses started by RLND alumni 13 alumni have run for statewide office. Over 85% of alumni provided leadership for community projects after RLND experience.

Thank You! RLND Website: http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/rlnd/ Follow us on Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/kv53zub