Who We Are
The Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation (IALF) empowers emerging leaders to shape the future of agriculture and rural communities—across Illinois and well beyond. We believe that agriculture isn’t just an industry; it’s a cornerstone of society that demands thoughtful, informed, and visionary leadership.
Our mission is simple but profound: to develop leaders who are prepared to navigate complexity, embrace innovation, and influence change.
Through a carefully designed, immersive educational experience, participants engage with top minds in agriculture, business, government, and international affairs. They gain unparalleled access to industry insights, policy-making environments, and leadership frameworks that prepare them to take on critical roles in their communities, industries, and global networks.
But we don’t stop there.
Participants become part of a dynamic and supportive alumni network—a community of leaders who understand the value of connection, collaboration, and lifelong learning. This network extends IALF’s impact across sectors and generations, creating a ripple effect of leadership and service.
At IALF, we are growing leaders who don’t just adapt to the future—they help create it.
What We Do
Transformative Seminars
From state-level insights to international experiences, our seminars equip leaders with real-world perspectives.
Alumni in Action
Over 600 alumni strong—leaders who serve, advocate, and lead in every sector of agriculture and beyond.
Industry Partnerships
We collaborate with top education partners, government, and industry to deliver unmatched leadership development.
Developing the Ag Leaders of Tomorrow
Alumni Reflections
Brian Anderson
Class of 2014
"The lALF program made me more aware of the importance
of agriculture in developing underdeveloped countries.
It opened my eyes to the opportunities all around the world as well as the global impact developed countries have on agriculture."
Jennie Bunger
Class of 2018
"The Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program has been one of the best things I could have done for my career in agriculture and also for my personal growth. I am excited to do my part for the agriculture industry in ways that I was not aware of before joining the Class of 2018.
This program and the people I have met have grown my knowledge of the industry, stretched my viewpoints and given me a well-rounded experience I will be able to utilize as I do my part to help shape the future of agriculture."
Bill Niebur
Class of 1988
"IALF alumni have affiliations with leading organizations in agriculture. IALF has visibility and has positioned itself with a hybrid view of agriculture - urban and rural, combined with strong relations with land grant universities and the private sector. Their graduates are strong voices in the agricultural community."
