Class 41 National Government Seminar
Washington D.C.
Class 41 spent a week in Washington D.C. learning first-hand the intricate workings of our federal government system. Along the way, they explored numerous museums and monuments and had the opportunity to meet with congressional delegates, as well as non-governmental organizations and agencies. 
Class 41 with U.S. Forest Service Chief, and AgForestry Leadership Class 12 Graduate, Vicki Christiansen.
Senior Director of Congressional Relations, David Salmonsen, talks about trade at the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Class 41 experienced living history with General Robert E. Lee and his wife, Mary.
Washington Senator Patty Murray hosted coffee with class members.
Here’s what class members said:

* I think the biggest thing I learned was the power of good information. There are so many people with opinions based purely off bad info out there. We each need to do our part to fight bad information and tell our own story.
 
* I saw leaders who appear to be looking for opportunities to serve their constituents. I saw leaders who appear to be seeking to maintain their positions of authority. I saw leaders who appear to be in a state of contentment with their position. It was educational for me to consider the variety of leadership mentalities, in some of the most influential positions in our country. I am now questioning my own leadership intentions more rigorously.
 
* Most of all, this seminar opened my eyes to the federal government system and how important it is to get honest and accurate information to our leaders in D.C. Telling your story is an extremely effective way to get your point across and leaders want to hear first-hand struggles and/or experiences.
 
* It became very evident how reliant people are on aids which is a good leadership lesson in that it's important to surround yourself with people that you trust will get the job done accurately and efficiently.
 
*Spending so much time with classmates was a great learning experience to talk about a lot of issues related to government or even totally unrelated issues. How to have conversations when you don’t always agree is a huge skill.
Applications are being accepted for AgForestry Leadership Class 42.
Apply, or nominate someone who you think is a future AgForestry Leader.