February 2, 2026 by Anne Parrish Uncategorized 0 comments

Wedgworth Leadership Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources Opens Nominations for Class XIII

The UF/IFAS Wedgworth Leadership Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources (WLIANR) is soliciting nominations for Class XIII of its two-year leadership development program.

Utilizing 11 multi-day seminars throughout Florida, the United States and internationally, WLIANR develops leaders to ensure a strong and adaptable Florida agriculture and natural resources industry for generations to come. WLIANR prepares leaders to assume greater responsibilities in their organizations, industries, and communities; create strategic alliances to build strong networks; analyze complex issues to influence constructive change through policy formation and to develop a better understanding of self and others, as well as the diverse communities in which we live and work.

To be eligible for consideration, nominees must:

be at least 25 years old by the application deadline of May 15, 2026;
have resided in Florida for a minimum of one year;
receive a substantial portion of their income from Florida agriculture, natural resources and/or related industries;
and demonstrate strong leadership potential.

Self-nominations are accepted. Nominations close May 1 and completed applications are due no later than May 15. Class XIII will begin in Gainesville in November 2026. To submit a nomination, visit wedgworthleadership.com.

Administered by University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) and housed in the UF Department of Agricultural Education and Communication, WLIANR hosted its inaugural class in 1992. With more than 300 program graduates, WLIANR has become the cornerstone program for developing the next generation of agricultural leaders in Florida.

For more information, contact Christy Chiarelli at 352-392-1041 or ccw@ufl.edu.