United Sorghum Checkoff Program Opens Applications for Leadership…

Post on January 21, 2026

For more information, contact:
Clint White
Director of Communications
United Sorghum Checkoff Program
[email protected]

For Immediate Release
January 21, 2026

United Sorghum Checkoff Program Opens Applications for Leadership Sorghum Class VIII

LUBBOCK, Texas (January 21, 2026)- The United Sorghum Checkoff Program is now accepting applications for Leadership Sorghum Class VIII, a premier leadership development program designed to cultivate the next generation of sorghum leaders.

Leadership Sorghum is an immersive 14-month program that provides participants with an in-depth exposure to various aspects of the sorghum industry, from basic and applied research to international marketing. Through both hands-on and classroom-style education, participants gain an understanding of how sorghum moves through the value chain, how checkoffs and interest organizations interact on behalf of the industry and what the future holds for the crop. The program also provides professional development training and networking opportunities.

"Leadership Sorghum continues to play a vital role in strengthening the future of our industry by investing in people," said Norma Ritz Johnson, executive director of the Sorghum Checkoff. "Class VIII participants will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing sorghum today while building lasting relationships across the industry."

USDA-approved criteria state that eligible applicants must be farmers or industry professionals actively engaged in sorghum production within the U.S. and U.S. citizens. Fifteen individuals will be accepted into the program's eighth class. More information on the class schedule and program criteria can be found at sorghumcheckoff.com/leadership.

"Leadership Sorghum is designed to develop confident, informed leaders who are prepared to represent the sorghum industry at every level," said Shelee Padgett, Sorghum Checkoff director of emerging markets and grower leader development. "By working closely with each class throughout the program, we're able to tailor the experience, build strong relationships and help participants see how their voices and perspectives can shape the future of sorghum."

Full consideration will be given to all applicants regardless of age, gender, race or occupation. Every effort will be made to select a class, based on the applicant pool, which is representative of the entire sorghum industry, its diversity and rural community interests.

Applications and additional supporting forms for Leadership Sorghum Class VIII must be received by 5 p.m. CST on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Additional details, eligibility requirements and application materials are available at sorghumcheckoff.com/leadership.

Following the Leadership Sorghum application deadline, all complete applications and references will be reviewed by a selection committee. Finalists may be contacted via telephone to arrange an interview. Class members and alternates will be notified of acceptance.

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The United Sorghum Checkoff Program is a producer-funded organization dedicated to improving the sorghum industry through research, promotion and education. For more information about USCP and other research projects, visit SorghumCheckoff.com.