Gregory Participates In Missouri Corn Leadership Academy

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.)–Kurtis Gregory of Malta Bend, Mo., joined a select group of nine farmers in Jefferson City Dec. 14-15 as part of the inaugural class of the Missouri CornRoots Leadership Academy sponsored by the Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) and Missouri Corn Merchandising Council (MCMC).

Designed to identify future grower-leaders and provide tools to increase grassroots involvement, the first CornRoots session kicked off Wednesday with growers from across the state.  Throughout the program, Gregory took part in sessions focused on the value of grassroots, effective leadership, public speaking, policy involvement and media training.  The class also visited the State Capitol to gain a better understanding of the policy process and how to effectively communicate with urban and rural legislators. 

“I think it is important to gain a better understanding of the agriculture industry and the policy process that affects it,” said Gregory.  “As farmers we need to be well informed and share our story with our community, state and national leaders, because ultimately, they make the decisions that can hinder or strengthen the future of farming.”

To complete the leadership academy, the group will take part in a second CornRoots session where they will meet with the Missouri Corn board of directors, visit with legislators at the State Capitol and join other growers for MCGA’s annual meeting Jan. 31 in Jefferson City.

Gregory was nominated to the CornRoots program by members of the Missouri Corn board.  He is a representative for Mid-State Seed. The Gregory family raises swine, cattle, corn, soybeans and alfalfa.

To learn more about Missouri’s corn industry and the farmers involved, visit www.mocorn.org or call (800) 827-4181.