Liberal Corn Grower Graduates From National Leadership Academy

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.)–Representing corn growers across Missouri, local farmer and Missouri Corn board member Kyle Kirby of Liberal, Mo., joined corn producers from around the country in Washington, D.C., this week to complete the National Corn Growers Association’s 2010-2011 National Leadership Academy.

Sponsored by Syngenta, the leadership program helps teach corn growers to be effective spokespersons at both the state and national level.  This week’s training was the second of two phases.  While in Washington D.C., Kirby and other participants focused on public policy and the legislative process.  Kirby also traveled to Capitol Hill to talk with political leaders on issues impacting the corn industry. 

“This is a fantastic program that helps growers learn how to communicate in an efficient, impactful manner,” noted Kirby.  “Our visit to Washington was very timely with many new, impressionable faces.  Missouri’s political leaders really do care what farmers have to say.  But with their busy schedules, you only get a few minutes with them so it is important to get your point across in a way they’ll remember.”

Last summer, Kirby participated in the first phase of the training taking part in sessions highlighting communications, business etiquette, public speaking, association management and media training.  Upon completing the second phase of training, Kirby joined more than 500 corn growers who have successfully graduated from the Leadership Academy.

Kirby was elected to the Missouri Corn board of directors in 2009.  He and his family operate a diversified beef and grain farm in Liberal, Mo.  To learn more about Missouri’s corn industry and the farmers involved, visit www.mocorn.org or call 1-800-827-4181.