Cultivating Leaders: The Food Systems Leadership Institute's Transformative Impact

For two decades, the Food Systems Leadership Institute (FSLI) has been a driving force in elevating leaders across the agricultural and food industry. Established by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU), this innovative program has equipped talented individuals from 47 states and multiple countries with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complex web of organizations, businesses, and governmental entities that shape the global food system.

Empowering the Next Generation of Food System Leaders

Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry

When the FSLI was founded in 2004, few presidents, provosts, and chancellors of major land-grant universities had emerged from the agriculture industry. The institute's mission was to change that, providing a platform for individuals with deep roots in farming and food systems to bring their unique perspectives and expertise to upper-level management roles. Through the FSLI's comprehensive curriculum, participants gain a broader understanding of the scope and interconnectedness of the food system, while also honing their individual leadership styles and developing personalized professional development plans.

Fostering Organizational Change and Innovation

The FSLI's impact extends far beyond the individual level, as the program's alumni have gone on to drive significant changes within their respective organizations. One such example is the Plant Science Initiative at North Carolina State University, which was conceived during the eighth cohort of the FSLI by Steve Lommel, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences' associate dean and director of research. This transformative project, which ultimately led to the construction of the Plant Sciences Building, is a testament to the FSLI's ability to inspire bold, visionary thinking.

Embracing Diversity of Thought

As the FSLI looks to the future, one of its key goals is to further expand its global reach and diversity of participants. To date, the institute has welcomed 482 fellows from 95 institutions and organizations, representing 47 states, the Virgin Islands, Guam, the Republic of Singapore, and Ontario, Canada. FSLI Director John Dole emphasizes the importance of this diversity, stating, "Diversity of thought is very important in leadership. We are very intent on trying to make sure that we get a wide diversity of thought."

Enhancing the Two-Year Program

The FSLI's two-year program is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience, with on-site residential sessions at partner universities, self-assessments, distance learning, mentorship, and a leadership project. As the institute celebrates its 20th anniversary, one of its future goals is to revise the second year of the program to include an additional in-person session, further enriching the learning experience for its fellows.

Transforming the Future of Food Systems

Through its unwavering commitment to developing visionary leaders, the Food Systems Leadership Institute has become a driving force in shaping the future of agriculture and food systems. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, fostering organizational change and innovation, and embracing diversity of thought, the FSLI continues to elevate leaders who are poised to tackle the complex challenges facing the global food landscape.