YDLI 9, Phase 3 - Day 2: Navigating Challenging Situations & Taking the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey

Day 2 of Young Dairy Leaders Institute got off to an interesting start very quickly. The class had the opportunity to participate in a discussion with Paul Shapiro, the Vice President of Farm Animal Protection for the Humane Society of the United States - the largest animal rights organization in the world. Moderated by Dr. Wes Jamison, several class members asked questions about HSUS's position on a variety of topics and were able to gain insight into and understanding of the organization's core values and areas of concern.

Dr. Wes Jamison, YDLI trainer, & Paul Shapiro, HSUS

In the afternoon, Dr. Jamison continued the discussion on how to communicate effectively with those who share different opinions than your own in his Conflict Management workshop. Participants learned to identify their own conflict style and that of those who they live and work with, along with strategies to improve the way they react to difficult situations.

Julie Wadzinski & Patrick Crave practice their conflict management skills during the afternoon session.

To round out the afternoon workshops, Holstein Foundation trustee and Chairman of the Land O'Lakes board of directors Pete Kappelman led an interactive session entitled "Get Ready to Run...for the Board!" He gave valuable insights into his path to becoming more involved at the board level, and helped YDLIers understand the role of being a director for an organization. Participants divided into several groups and formed "mini boards," where they were then tasked with a real-world situation to work through and come to agreement as a group.

Pete Kappelman provides some guidance to Tyler Ribiero, CA, and Stacy Stearns, CT, during his board member training workshop.

Laura Gordon, WI, presents on behalf of her board, a plan of action for dealing with a marketing campaign that they did not approve of. 

Kappelman again took the stage as the keynote speaker for dinner, where he challenged each class member to realize the potential that lies within them, harness their passion and make a difference in their communities.

Tomorrow is the final day of Phase 3 training, and will focus on empowering YDLIers to affect public policy and increase their own personal influence, capping off with YDLI Class 9's graduation and a final celebration.

Learn more about Young Dairy Leaders Institute or add your name to the list to be notified when Class 10 applications become available at the Holstein Foundation web site.