Over 60 young adults in the dairy industry recently gathered in Grapevine, TX for an inspiring week during Phase I of the Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI). Designed for young adults ages 22 to 45 working in any facet of the dairy industry, YDLI is the premier leadership program for the dairy community.

YDLI Class 14 is made up of dairy farmers and professionals from across North America. Over the next year, class members will grow in six self-selected areas, take on leadership roles, and give back to their communities during the second phase of the three-phase program. The class will meet again in February 2027 for Phase III.

“The first phase of the YDLI program was invigorating and empowering. I learned about myself while connecting with incredibly uplifting individuals that are devoted to bettering themselves and the dairy industry,” says Julia Fouts, a Class 14 member from New York. “I’m looking forward to reaching my goals in the coming year and reconnecting with everyone at Phase III.”

The program kicked off on Monday, February 2 with an optional behind the scenes tour of the Fort Worth Stock Show. That evening, YDLI Class 14 members gathered for a casual dinner and time for networking and connection.

Tuesday started bright and early with introductions and words of advice from the YDLI Advisory Committee. Attendees spent the morning learning about their unique personality types and how to leverage their strengths to communicate effectively in a session led by Advisory Committee members Ellen Cushing and Tera Baker. That afternoon, Class 14 heard from Jason Wetzler in an interactive session focused on how experiences and the stories we tell influence personal and professional brands. The evening wrapped up with a dinner and dynamic keynote from Galen Emanuele.

“In my career, I have been searching for a group of young professionals who share similar interests and backgrounds and strive to promote growth, leadership, and advocacy,” says Class 14 member Bobby Marchy from Colorado. “That’s what I found at YDLI.”

Wednesday brought more time for self-reflection and growth. Galen Emanuale joined the class again for a presentation titled “Next Level Leadership, Culture & Feedback.” In the afternoon, attendees were energized with a message from Kelly Swanson focused on using storytelling for connection and persuasion. Then, Michele Ruby joined the group for a session aimed at helping attendees better communicate with consumers and leave a lasting impression with any audience.

Thursday morning brought more from Michele Ruby as members of Class 14 put their dairy communication skills into practice. The 2026 YDLI Distinguished Alumni Leader Nic Schoenberger was also recognized. Attendees closed out the conference by diving into their projects and goals for Phase II, where they will focus on growth in six areas of personal and professional growth, take on leadership roles, and give back to their communities.

“YDLI Phase I has been an incredible experience that has pushed me outside of my comfort zone, helped me grow alongside amazing peers, and is leaving me excited to take new skills home and put them into action,” reflects Class 14 member Katie Yahnke of Wisconsin.