Bridging States, Building Future Ag Leaders
“This program is a powerful example of how collaboration across state lines can create meaningful opportunities for young people.”
Utica, NY (May 2026)– The New York Beef Council (NYBC) and Kentucky Beef Council (KBC) are proud to continue their partnership through the “Bridging States, Building Leaders” Youth Leadership Program, an immersive experience designed to cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Now entering its second year, the program brings together students from New York and Kentucky for a week-long, hands-on learning opportunity focused on leadership development, career exploration, and real-world exposure to the beef industry.
Selected New York participants will travel to Lexington, Kentucky, to engage directly with industry professionals, tour agricultural operations, and build connections with peers who share a passion for agriculture.
Program Details:
- Program Dates: July 27th - July 31st, 2026
- Travel Dates: July 26th (arrival) & July 31st (departure)
- Location: Lexington, Kentucky Application
- Deadline: June 1st, 2026
The program is open to New York residents who are incoming high school seniors who are 17 or older. Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in agriculture, leadership development, and career opportunities within the beef industry.
“This program is a powerful example of how collaboration across state lines can create meaningful opportunities for young people,” said Chrissy Claudio, Director of Producer Communications at NYBC. “By connecting students directly with the beef industry, we are helping them build skills, confidence, and a clearer vision for their future.”
Participants will engage in interactive experiences designed to strengthen leadership skills, expand their understanding of the beef value chain, and highlight the diverse career pathways available in agriculture.
Travel and hotel accommodations are fully covered for selected participants, ensuring accessibility for students across New York State. Applications are now open. To learn more about the program, visit: https://www.nybeef.org/farmers-fencepost/bridging-states-building-leaders To apply, visit: https://forms.office.com/r/eGWX9x2eZn
About the New York Beef Council
The New York Beef Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening consumer trust in beef and supporting beef producers across New York State through promotion, education, and research.
About the Kentucky Beef Council
The Kentucky Beef Council is an organization working on behalf of Kentucky’s cattle producers in the areas of promotion, education, and research, funded through the Beef Checkoff. The Checkoff is a $ 2.00-per-head assessment on all cattle sold in Kentucky, with a portion supporting national efforts through the Cattlemen’s Beef Board and the remainder invested in state-level programs. These efforts include advertising and promotion, consumer education, partnerships with retail and foodservice, producer communications, industry outreach, and research initiatives. KBC programs are producer-led, state-directed, and accountable, ensuring that investments support meaningful engagement with consumers, youth, health professionals, and industry stakeholders while enhancing market opportunities for beef.