Laura Beth Gamache, pictured left, and Daniel Mullenix, pictured right, of Lee County were selected as two of 18 participants for the two-year Agricultural Leaders for Alabama (A.L.F.A.) Program. Sponsored by Alabama Farmers Federation, A.L.F.A. Leaders includes six leadership development classes as well as two trips. The class will graduate in August 2025. Gamache is a territory sales manager with Brandt Consolidated Inc. and Mullenix is a cattle farmer and director of ag technologies with GreenPoint Ag Holdings LLC.
The program begins in September and will conclude with a capstone project presentation and graduation at the 2025 Farm & Land Expo. Participants will train in agricultural policy, industry leadership, productive communication and organizational involvement at six seminars in Alabama, Washington, D.C., and a to-be-determined international location.
“We’re proud to offer a program that strengthens the abilities of young agricultural leaders in our state,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell, a graduate of the Alabama Agriculture and Forestry Leadership Development Program, a forerunner to A.L.F.A. Leaders. “We want to continue developing leaders who not only serve in important federation roles but in positions to help our state and nation, as well.”
Participants were chosen by an independent selection committee comprised of former class members, Alabama Agriculture and Forestry Leadership Development Program graduates and stakeholders with a vested interest in agriculture leadership development.
Selection is based on criteria related to community involvement and personal ability and characteristics. The program is designed for participants ages 25 to 45 who demonstrate leadership qualities and potential, in addition to strong character, reputation and a sound personal life.