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American Farmers & Ranchers (AFR) announced its 2015-2016 Youth Advisory Council at the organization’s annual Senior Leadership Summit Reception July 30.
The Council consists of high school juniors and seniors representing AFR youth from across the state. Members of the 2015-2016 Council are Madi Baughman, Lone Grove; Grant Wilber, Cherokee; Ashley Tucker, Fairview; Macee Hammack, Leedy; and Guess Leonard, Claremore.
Council members participate in agriculture-based service projects throughout the year and assist in planning many AFR Youth Program activities. They also facilitate AFR events and act as mentors for younger Oklahoma youth.
The AFR Youth Advisory Council is selected at the organization’s annual Senior Leadership Summit. The selection process includes a written application, an interview conducted by a panel of AFR members and leadership professionals and a speech given in front of the candidates’ peers. In addition to interview and application scores, a vote based on personal relationships is cast by students attending Summit, allowing all attendees to be involved in the selection process.
AFR Senior Leadership Summit develops leadership skills in junior high and high school youth that will prepare them for future educational and professional experiences. Attendees learn such skills as setting and achieving short- and long-term goals and working in teams. They also learn the value of personal responsibility, respect for their peers and many other positive attributes.