The 13th class has been selected for the South Dakota Agricultural & Rural Leadership (SDARL) program. Twenty-two individuals from across the state will participate in the program that develops the skills, knowledge and character of leaders for rural communities and the state’s most essential industry.
Class XIII includes eleven members who work hands-on at a ranch or farm. Other members represent the diversity of agri-business, community development, and non-profit organizations that include precision agriculture, ag finance, government and multinational corporations.
Class XIII members are:
- Allison Arp, Volga;
- Amanda Bechen, Brookings;
- Amy Beran, Tabor;
- Craig Converse, Brookings;
- Tami Hannan, New Underwood;
- Brett Harrison, Aberdeen;
- Brooke Higgins, Leola;
- Amber Kauk, Aurora;
- Matthew Kunerth, Aurora;
- Sheena Larsen, Reliance;
- Marty Michalek, Chamberlain;
- Sarah Myers, Winner;
- Carter Paulson, Claremont;
- Travis Renkly, Arlington;
- Britni Ross, Philip;
- Samuel Schaunaman, Aberdeen;
- Walker Sik, Hendricks, MN;
- Sydney Swanson, Philip;
- Dante Tezza, Sherman;
- Annie Walker, Walker;
- Jarod Weber, Watertown;
- Brandon White, Arlington.
“In addition to diversity across the agricultural landscape, this class is geographically diverse,” noted SDARL Program Director Jennifer Henrie. “Class members are from Philip, Leola, Tabor, Brookings, and other cities and towns representing the broad expanse of agriculture and the rural nature of our state.”
The class members will begin their 18-month leadership development program in December 2025. There are 12 seminars in the SDARL leadership series, including one seminar in Washington, D.C., and one international study seminar.
“Class XIII continues the tradition of excellence that is the hallmark of the SDARL program,” noted Janelle Booth, SDARL CEO. “When this class graduates in 2027, it will bring our list of graduates to over 375 individuals. These are influential and impactful leaders in South Dakota agriculture and rural communities.”
Participation in the program is competitive and requires a formal application and interview. Applications for the next SDARL class will begin in February of 2027.
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