The fourth and final session of Class 3 of the Soybean Genesis Leaders Program was held at Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, SD, on March 15, 2024.

With a theme of “Leadership Readiness,” program participants were challenged to consider where their next leadership development opportunity might arise. The day started with a tour of LATC’s educational facilities and adiscussion of workforce development. Next, the group had a media skills training workshop with Mariah Kessler, Communications Director at SD Soybean.

The afternoon lineup included remarks from Heather Beaner, soybean farmer and SD Soybean Association Board of Directors, on finding purpose in farm and leadership; and Ross Tschetter, ASA/Corteva Young Leaders and SD Soybean Association Board of Directors, on why he chooses to serve.

Finally, the group had a graduation ceremony where they received Certificates of Completion from SDARL and SD Soybean. Genesis Leaders Program Class 3 graduates are:

• Tyra Bechen, Groton, SD

• Trevor Benson, Lyons, SD

• Tara Bierman, Northville, SD

• Scott Christopherson, Volga, SD

• Sarah Engel, Aberdeen, SD

• Brent Greenway, Mitchell, SD

• Bruce Haines, Mitchell, SD

• Colton Hanson, Watertown, SD

• Zack Hazel, Baltic, SD

• Zach Hefty, Baltic, SD

• Braedon Hinker, Pierre, SD

• Cody King, Brookings, SD

• Jeff Kloucek, Scotland, SD

• Dustin Lounsbery, Canistota, SD

• Larry Michels, Sioux Falls, SD

• Collin Powell, Chamberlain, SD

• Connor Powell, Pukwana, SD

• Jared Questad, Baltic, SD

• Sam Schaunaman, Aberdeen, SD

• Chad Stoterau, Sherman, SD