Rural Leadership North Dakota (RLND) Program

The Rural Leadership North Dakota (RLND) program is designed to develop leaders who can make a lasting impact on their communities and industries. Through hands-on experiences, professional networking, and leadership training, participants gain valuable skills that enhance their careers and community involvement.

Program Overview

The program is 18 months long, with no less than 22 days in year one and 24 days in year two of required time and attendance. The cost to each participant is $4,500, with investments from alumni, stakeholders, and grants helping to offset the total cost of around $16,000.

Eligibility and Application Process

• The program is open to individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries who are passionate about leadership and community development.
• Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to personal growth, civic engagement, and making a difference in North Dakota.
• The application process involves:
  • Completing an online application, which consists of three separate forms and requires uploading a resume.
  • Submitting the application by the deadline.
  • Sending a recommendation form to two references (or three if self-employed).
  • If not self-employed, the employer will need to sign and complete an employer support agreement and a recommendation form.
  • Preparing for an in-person interview.

Selection Process

• All applicants will participate in an in-person interview at a regional location.
• The interview is an opportunity for the program directors to learn more about the applicant, their leadership experiences, and their aspirations.
• Each RLND class is carefully selected by the RLND Council after a review of the application and interview, with final approval by the RLND Program Director.
• Up to 22 participants are chosen for each class.

Program Commitment

• Each participant is expected to fulfill the following commitments:
  • Attend all RLND seminars.
  • Assume leadership responsibility during the program, including participating in seminar management teams and helping to coordinate and facilitate learning experiences.
  • Complete a personal leadership project that applies their learning to a real-world initiative in their local community or organization.
  • Share their RLND and international experience by speaking to groups, organizations, or their community.
  • Engage in post-graduate leadership activities to continue making an impact.

Seminar Information

The program includes 10 seminars, with topics ranging from personal leadership development to state leadership within agriculture and rural policies. The seminars are held at various locations throughout North Dakota and include travel seminars to Minneapolis, Washington, D.C., and a foreign country.

Employer Benefits

Investing in an employee's participation in RLND is an investment in the future of the organization. RLND participants gain practical leadership skills, a broader professional network, and fresh, innovative ideas all of which directly benefit their workplace. Employers who support RLND participants often see increased employee confidence, stronger team dynamics, and fresh perspectives that contribute to organizational success.

What Happens Next

• Applications are reviewed after the deadline.
• Interviews take place in June at selected locations.
• Final selections are announced in August after the RLND Council has made their class selections.
• The class begins in November with the first seminar.

North Dakota State University

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Overview:

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a public, land-grant, research university located in Fargo, North Dakota. It is a top-ranked R1 institution, known for its commitment to student-focused learning and its dedication to research. NDSU provides affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Admission:

NDSU provides comprehensive admission services, including application assistance, financial aid information, and campus visits.

Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Campus Life:

NDSU provides a vibrant campus life with various co-curricular activities, dining services, residence life options, and athletic events.

Student Support:

NDSU offers support services such as career advising, counseling, and wellness resources.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU provides ample research opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Online Programs:

NDSU offers a variety of online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various co-curricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports. The university also provides a variety of dining options, residence halls, and recreational facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

NDSU offers an excellent education at an affordable price.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Hands-on Learning:

NDSU emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical experience in their chosen fields.

Strong Faculty:

NDSU has a strong faculty committed to teaching and mentoring students.

Vibrant Campus Life:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community.

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Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Agriculture and Biological Systems:

NDSU is a leading institution in agriculture and biological systems, with strong programs in areas such as animal science, plant science, and biotechnology.

Engineering and Architecture:

NDSU offers a variety of engineering and architecture programs, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture.

Health Sciences:

NDSU has a strong presence in health sciences, with programs in areas such as nursing, pharmacy, and public health.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

NDSU offers a variety of humanities and social sciences programs, including English, history, and political science.

Business and Economics:

NDSU has a strong business and economics program, with programs in areas such as accounting, finance, and marketing.

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Other:

NDSU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it offers a variety of resources and programs to support students from diverse backgrounds. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.