Applications to participate in the next LEAD cohort, Class XII (2022-2023), are now closed. Thank you to the many applicants and those who have provided references for the applicants.
The online application was open from June 1 until October 1, 2021.
LEAD Class XII (2022-2023):
Thank you for your interest in joining the LEAD Maryland Fellowship Program's next cohort, Class XII. Class XII will participate in 2022-2023. The online application was available June 1 through October 1, 2021. In addition to completing the online application, applicants need 3 references. A reference form is provided (found below). Reference forms must be returned directly from the recommender to the LEAD Maryland Foundation office via email: leadmd@umd.edu, or mail: 124 Wye Narrows Drive, Queenstown, MD 21658. The LEAD Fellowship Program is for adults, age 21 and over.
LEAD Maryland Class XII Reference Form as a pdf, which can be printed and shared;
Or use LEAD Maryland Class XII Reference Form as a WORD document.
Introduction to the LEAD Program
For a brief overview of the LEAD Program including curriculum, time commitment, benefits to participation, eligibility, and the application process, click here.
LEAD News and Events
LEAD's September Newsletter
Check out LEAD Maryland's September newsletter here!
LEAD Alumni Workshop Addressed Broadband Connectivity in Rural Maryland
On May 12, 2021, from 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, LEAD Maryland Alumni Committee co-chairs Bill Schrodel (Class III), and Kathy Johnson (Class VIII) were joined by Charlotte Davis (Class IX) of Rural Maryland Council, and Matt Teffeau (Class IX) of Choptank Electric Cooperative, in a virtually-delivered workshop that addressed broadband connectivity throughout rural Maryland. Charlotte and Matt shared updates on what progress has been made so far, and what options currently exist for bringing reliable, consistent internet access to rural portions of the state. Bill also shared his knowledge of StarLink and some additional resources.
If you were unable to attend the live event, a recording is available (for a limited time) by clicking on the link provided below.
Thank you again to our speakers, Charlotte and Matt, and to Bill and Kathy for organizing and hosting this informative event!
About the Program:
The LEAD Maryland Fellowship Program (a University of Maryland Extension Signature Program) is provided through a collaborative effort between the LEAD Maryland Foundation and the University of Maryland Extension, along with many other organizations, businesses, and individuals that work to fund, plan, implement, and evaluate the program and its activities. LEAD Maryland Foundation, Inc. is dedicated to identifying and developing leadership to serve agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities.
The LEAD Program awards a two-year fellowship to selected participants, creating classes of 20-25 emerging leaders. The LEAD Fellowship curriculum focuses on providing public issues education, skills building, leadership development, and personal growth.
In 2019, the University of Maryland Extension designated the LEAD Maryland Fellowship Program as an Extension Signature Program. To achieve this status, a program must meet the following seven criteria:
- Align with the mission of UME
- Meet critical clientele needs
- Incorporate research, evaluation, and scholarship
- Demonstrate the ability to be replicated
- Incorporate marketing and communication components
- Establish public value
- Demonstrate sustainability through ongoing UME funding
I give so much of the credit for my professional career to LEAD Maryland. The listening skills, conflict management, discussion skills, and understanding various aspects affecting agriculture across the state and in various regions of the state, helped me in my career.
Holly Porter, Delmarva Chicken Association
Hear What LEAD Alumni Have to Say:
