In this living-learning environment, participants develop a network of professional relationships and friendships that is fundamental to generating and sustaining rural development initiatives. Practical application learning. The training sessions and homework assignments afford participants opportunities to practice new leadership skills and apply what they learn to the problems and issues in their communities. A participatory learning process. The institute brings people and knowledge together through a participatory learning process that is stimulating, challenging and fun.
Leaders learn from one another.
Throughout the institute, participants share information and experience and challenge one another to new ways of thinking. State and Regional Resources. The institute features dynamic presenters from a range of academic institutions and economic and community development organizations. The institute's in-house faculty includes individuals with extensive background in leadership training and community economic development. The institute is designed for rural leaders who are active in decision-making roles in their communities.