The Extension Leadership Team invites applications from agents, area and state specialists, and administrators who are interested in participating in the 2015 NELD North Central program. Applicants must be full-time employees with at least three years of service with NDSU Extension. A program overview provided by University of Minnesota Extension (the host institution) provides a good description of what it's all about.

The program requires full commitment and participation. In addition to personal and professional development resources, participants will attend four, on-site seminars as follows:

• Session 1, January 21-24, 2015, Chicago, IL area, Understanding My Role as Leader
• Session 2, April 10-18, 2015, Costa Rica, Entering the Realm of the Other
• Session 3, July 12-16, 2015, Washington, DC, Leading in a Shared Power World
• Session 4, September 16-19, 2015, St Paul, MN area, Integrating Leadership for Change

Participants' transportation, meals, lodging and seminar tuition will be supported with state funds.

Up to three participants will be selected from the applications that reach my office by Friday, Aug. 1, 2014. Please allow enough time to get the needed signatures along the way.

As you consider whether or not to apply, you may find it helpful to visit with a few of your colleagues who have participated in recent years.

• 2014  Marcia Hellandsaas & Lisa Pederson
• 2013 Chris Augustin, Vanessa Hoines, Dena Kemmet, LoAyne Voigt & Joe Zeleznik
• 2012   Janet Knodel & Samantha Roth
• 2011   Raquel Dugan-Dibble & Sharon Query
• 2010   Sue Isbell & Joel Ransom
• 2009   Crystal Schaunaman & Rita Ussatis
• 2008   Jodi Bruns, Bill Hodous & Charlie Stoltenow
• 2007   Mike Hanson & Lori Scharmer
• 2006   Donna Anderson & Steve Sagaser
• 2004   Jim Hennessy & Colleen Svingen
• 2002-03   Lynette Flage, Randy Grueneich & Mohamed Khan
• 2001-02   Ellen Bjelland & Blaine Schatz
• 2000   Al Ulmer & Dave Franzen

We invite you to consider this opportunity to look at leadership in a new way.

Chris Boerboom, Extension Director