Rural Leadership North Dakota, a North Dakota State University Extension leadership development program, has announced the selection of its 11th class. RLND is designed to empower individuals from across the state, fostering their growth as leaders for rural communities and equipping them to navigate agricultural and rural policy issues as well as emerging trends that may shape North Dakota’s future.

Class XI comprises 18 individuals representing a wide range of backgrounds, including agriculture, education, rural development and community leadership. The cohort begins its 18-month leadership journey in November 2025.

Those selected for RLND Class XI are the following:

• Abram Valenta, Montpelier
• Amberrae McLeod, Bismarck
• Anya Hondel, Grand Forks
• Brian Palmer, Bottineau
• Briana Spellerberg, Lidgerwood
• Carmel Miller, Carson
• Cassandra Andress, Reeder
• Deanna Decimus Holmes, Grand Forks
• Haley Vollmer, Mandan
• Janae Hughes, Lisbon
• Janell Jerome, Belcourt
• Jennifer Jordan, Lisbon
• Jens Johnson, New Salem
• Jonnah Lee, Velva
• Molly Fern, West Fargo
• Rudy Dotzenrod, Wyndmere
• Ryan Messer, Menoken
• Taylor Kittelson, Velva

“These individuals demonstrate a strong commitment to strengthening their communities and contributing to the future of North Dakota,” says Katie Tyler, NDSU Extension specialist and RLND program director. “They are eager to enhance their leadership skills while learning from each other and the people and places they will encounter throughout the program.”

Class XI participants will engage in seven in-state seminars that include agricultural and agribusiness tours, community development site visits and immersive sessions on public policy, leadership and rural innovation. Beyond the state, participants will attend a regional seminar, a national seminar in Washington, D.C., and an international study tour. These experiences broaden participants’ perspectives on agriculture, governance and rural development across local, national and global contexts. Through this exposure, participants develop the adaptability, insight and strategic vision necessary to lead in an increasingly interconnected and evolving rural landscape.

Since its inception, the program has graduated over 190 individuals who continue to make significant contributions in agriculture, business, education, rural development and public service across North Dakota. Admission to RLND remains highly competitive, requiring a formal application and interview process. Applications for Class XII will open in the spring of 2027.

Funding for the RLND program is provided by NDSU Extension, participant tuition fees and the support of agribusinesses, farm organizations, program alumni and others committed to leadership in rural North Dakota. The total cost to support one participant through the program is approximately $16,000. Each Class XI participant will contribute $4,500 in tuition, with the remaining costs covered by sponsors.

“Sponsorships are essential to the success and sustainability of RLND,” adds Tyler. “We are actively seeking new partners to invest in the future of North Dakota’s rural leadership.”

To learn more about RLND or become a program supporter, visit ndsu.ag/rlnd.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – July 23, 2025

Source: Katie Tyler, 701-361-0869, katherine.tyler@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu