Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI) is the cornerstone program of the Holstein Foundation. YDLI is a nationally recognized three-phase leadership and communication skills development program for young adults working in the dairy industry. YDLI’s three-phase approach ensures participants develop necessary leadership skills, apply those skills in real-life scenarios, and then focus on the benefits of influential leadership.
YDLI has over 600 alumni that can attest to its merit. The Holstein Foundation is seeking young adults, ages 22-45, with a passion for the dairy industry to apply for the upcoming eleventh YDLI class. Applications are due August 1, 2018 and may be downloaded from the Holstein Foundation website at www.holsteinfoundation.org.
Recent graduate Ashley Sears Randle says, “From dynamic presenters and workshops, to the opportunity to network with individuals from the U.S. and world, YDLI reaffirmed and re-energized my passion for the dairy industry. I am now better equipped to tackle the tough questions, share my story with consumers, and work collaboratively with my fellow YDLI Class 10 graduates, advisory board, and allied industry members to affect positive change. We have both the opportunity and challenge to make forward progress as our industry continues to evolve, and I am confident that YDLI has provided me with the skills, knowledge, and connections to make a significant impact.”
Dairy producers working with all breeds of dairy cattle, and allied dairy industry members, are encouraged to apply. YDLI Class 11 will have on-site meetings in Phoenix, Ariz. February 6-9, 2019 and February 5-8, 2020.
Phase I is focused on individual leadership and personal development. During Phase II, participants complete a series of assignments in their community, which emphasizes the advocacy and outreach skills gained during Phase I. Phase III features sessions on advanced communications training, influencing public policy and continued advocacy and leadership. Throughout the program, an emphasis is placed on networking with industry peers, a benefit that carries on long after a YDLI class is complete.
“The greatest thing I see YDLI graduates take away is a boost in confidence. We challenge them to do some things they never have before, and when they achieve their goals, it lights a fire in them to do more,” Jodi Hoynoski, Holstein Foundation staff, states.
Join the growing group of individuals who call YDLI the opportunity of a lifetime! Visit www.holsteinfoundation.org to download the YDLI Class 11 application, as well as view more detailed information on the program. With questions or for more information, contact Jodi Hoynoski via email jhoynoski@holstein.com, or 800.952.5200, ext. 4261.
The Holstein Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization founded in 1989. It is headquartered in Brattleboro, Vermont, and shares office space with its parent organization, Holstein Association USA, Inc.
The Holstein Foundation’s education, leadership development and outreach programs serve both youth and young adults across the country who are involved with all breeds of dairy cattle.