By Brooke Franke, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union
This year, National Farmers Union (NFU) All-States Leadership Summit took a major leap forward, hosting the event for the first time in Washington, D.C. The move was more than symbolic; it added real-world depth and meaning to every discussion, every workshop, and every connection made. Being in the nation’s capital surrounded us with the very policy and advocacy efforts we were learning about, making the summit not only more impactful but also more inspiring. Washington, D.C. served as the perfect backdrop for a weekend focused on youth empowerment, civic engagement, and national unity. Standing in the heart of American policymaking, we were reminded of the importance of our voices and the power we hold to influence the future of agriculture and beyond.
What makes the All-States Summit stand out is its unique ability to bring together passionate, knowledgeable young people from across the country. We came from places like Colorado, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin, and the opportunity to meet peers who are equally motivated and eager to grow was invaluable. These interactions created a space where we could not only exchange ideas but also gain a deeper understanding of the various agricultural challenges that different regions face. From water scarcity in the West to economic struggles in the Midwest, the perspectives shared helped highlight the diverse and evolving landscape of agriculture in America, while also building a sense of unity and shared purpose among the attendees.
One of the most impressive aspects of the summit was how useful the workshops were to everyone, not just those planning to pursue a career in agriculture. The programming was intentionally designed to build universally applicable skills. For example, a LinkedIn tutorial gave us an in-depth look at how to build a standout profile, make meaningful connections, and strategically leverage the platform for career advancement. This was followed by a resume development session packed with practical advice for students entering any professional field. Even the improv workshop, which might have seemed unrelated at first, turned out to be a highlight. It taught us how to better think on our feet and communicate clearly under pressure; skills that are essential in interviews, presentations, or unexpected conversations with policymakers.
Another critical part of the summit was the emphasis on effective communication and personal narrative. Chase Kusel from NFU led a compelling session on storytelling, helping us understand how to share our own experiences in a way that resonates with others and inspires action. This is particularly important when young people are trying to be heard in rooms dominated by more experienced professionals or legislators. We learned how to identify the heart of our message, present it confidently, and make people care. This foundation was strengthened further in the “Learning to Disagree Better” workshop by Braver Angels. In a world that feels increasingly divided, this session taught us how to engage in productive conversations with those who think differently. This is an especially critical skill in agricultural advocacy, where political and ideological divides often complicate progress.
What made this year’s summit truly stand apart, however, was the extraordinary access we had to professionals who are actively shaping the future of agriculture policy. Panels featuring leaders such as Emily Pliscott (Economist/Senior Policy Analyst, House Agriculture Committee), Paul Montgomery (Director of Communications, United Egg Producers), and Madeleine Ring (Farm Park Manager, Center for Maryland Agriculture) gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the many career paths available within agriculture-related fields. A second panel titled “Ag Advocacy in Washington” introduced us to Skylar Sowder (VP of Government Relations, Farm Credit Council), Lisa Van Soren (VP and Chief of Staff for Government Affairs, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives), Calico Ducheneaux (Policy Fellow, Intertribal Agriculture Council), and Brittany Jablonsky (Chief of Staff, National Farmers Union). These discussions were not only informative but also empowering. They made clear that young people have a seat at the table and that we must use it.
Perhaps the most engaging and eye-opening session came from Mike Stranz, Vice President of Advocacy at NFU. Mike’s workshop gave us a first-hand look into what real advocacy work looks like. Through a mock policy meeting held in the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture’s primary meeting room — a truly inspiring and unique setting — we learned how legislation is ultimately shaped by those who care enough to show up. Mike also delivered a meaningful and informative presentation that helped us fully understand how to get involved in agricultural advocacy and why it is so important that we do it. His passion and approachable style made the session both fun and deeply educational. I appreciated that Mike made policy feel dynamic and accessible. The fact that this happened in Washington, D.C., just blocks away from where real decisions are made, made the experience all the more meaningful.
We were also honored to meet with NFU President Rob Larew during the banquet on the last night of the summit. Having the chance to speak with someone in such a high leadership position was a powerful moment. Rob’s vast knowledge, down-to-earth demeanor, and genuine enthusiasm for hearing from young voices made the conversation feel impactful. He didn’t just talk at us; he listened. And he encouraged us to keep bringing forward our ideas to better Farmers Union, which is essential in shaping agriculture to best succeed in the future.
While the summit’s formal programming was incredible, the informal moments were equally meaningful. During our visits to Washington’s monuments and museums, we had the chance to unwind, reflect, and build lasting connections. I had a particularly insightful conversation with Aeriel Eithreim (South Dakota, 2024-2025 NYAC Council Member), who shared the unique struggles that farmers and ranchers in her region face; issues very different from those we encounter in Colorado. That conversation helped broaden my understanding of American agriculture and emphasized the value of listening to others with different lived experiences.
I also had the chance to meet Chaz Blotsky (South Dakota, 2024–2025 NYAC Council Member), who was incredibly passionate about ensuring young people have a real voice in Farmers Union and agriculture as a whole. Talking with him not only reignited my own passion for that goal, but reminded me that I’m not alone, there are others just as determined to push for change. Beyond inspiration, I also gained a network of people I can reach out to as I continue working toward that vision. One of the greatest benefits of attending the summit is meeting and interacting with new people. Being in Washington, D.C. deepened our understanding of why youth advocacy matters and motivated us to be involved in shaping the future of agriculture.
Throughout the summit Lisa Buckner, NFU’s Education Coordinator, was a constant source of support and leadership. Her organization kept the summit running smoothly, but more importantly, she made sure that every participant felt seen and heard. As someone who doesn’t plan to pursue a career in farming or ranching, I was grateful for how Lisa helped me find where I fit in the broader agricultural community. She reinforced the idea that Farmers Union is for anyone who cares about food systems, rural communities, and making a positive impact on the world.
A defining moment of the summit was the election of the 2025–2026 National Youth Advisory Council (NYAC) members: Ruby Sheaffer (Wisconsin), Larahmy Blakley (Oklahoma), Patrick Olsen, Madi Raymond, and Brandon Toennies (South Dakota). These individuals are not only brilliant and driven, but also deeply committed to representing the voices of young people across the nation. I had the pleasure of getting to know each of them over the weekend, and I left with immense hope for the future. Their leadership will undoubtedly shape the future direction of Farmers Union.
Ultimately, the NFU All-States Leadership Summit is more than just a leadership training event; it’s a transformative experience. It’s a space where young people are not only taught to lead, but are empowered to lead right now. It’s a place where connections are made, ideas are exchanged, and futures are shaped. Whether you’re pursuing a career in agriculture or in an entirely different field, this summit will equip you with the tools, confidence, and community you need to thrive. The decision to hold the summit in Washington, D.C. was essential, elevating the impact and immersing us in the real-world implications of everything we were learning. This wasn’t just a conference; it was a call to action. And every young person should have the chance to answer it.