Leadership Search in Washington
Up on a rooftop patio in the American Farm Bureau Federation building in the District of Columbia, with a view of the nation's capital, MARL class members were able to get a view of the city that our founders laid out two and a half centuries earlier. This week is one for growing in awareness and practicing leadership skills.
National Statuary Hall
A chamber in the United States Capitol devoted to sculptures of prominent Americans. Aka – the Old Hall of the House
Maria Louise Sanford was an American educator. A professor of rhetoric and elocution at the University of Minnesota from 1880 to 1909. Also, Henry Mower Rice, a fur trader and prominent politician in Minnesota's statehood. Noteworthy, Norman Borlaug, born in Iowa, educated in Minnesota (BS, MS, & PhD) at the U of MN, is also an agronomist who contributed to the increase of agricultural production "Green Revolution" was awarded many honors, the Nobel Peace Prize, and is also recognized in the National Statutory Hall.
"Because of the connections I felt"
This was my first trip to Washington, D.C., and I found the history astounding. My first reflection is on some of that history. On our first full day in DC, we strolled through the National Mall, visiting the monuments and war memorials. One of the stops is the Vietnam War Memorial; most people know of the names etched into the wall, but something I learned about is a plaque dedicated to those veterans who died as a result of their service; that is important to me because I lost my grandfather to health issues that stemmed from his exposure to Agent Orange. Finding that plaque and seeing my grandfather’s sacrifice honored was deeply impactful on a personal level. I stopped at the memorial several times in my free time because of the connection I felt.
Meaningful Experience & Appreciation...
My experience with MARL in D.C. was a meaningful experience that gave me a new perspective on ag policy and the importance of team building. I was blown away by the incredible architecture and loved seeing our nation's history. I also really appreciate all the time spent in small groups, connecting with my classmates.
Networking and Communication - Everywhere!
I was amazed by the amount of networking and communication there is everywhere and between every party.
Representing the 7th District of Minnesota, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach met with us and shared her role in reopening the federal government. Also discussed the Farm Bill extension and the importance of farmers to America. She is proud to support legislation that benefits our farmers and rural communities. Also noteworthy, she represents Southwest Minnesota State University - the home of our MARL Program and many good programs of higher education in rural reaches of the SW part of our state.
Inspired by Leadership. . .
The Washington, D.C., seminar left me feeling grateful and inspired by the leadership of our country. Though there are challenges in our world today, it's evident from the history on display in DC that we will overcome them when good leaders emerge. Americans are opportunists - finding a way in the challenging times and continually improving during the better times. Fostering collaboration brings progress.
Did I Speak Out?
Imagine a world where you have no voice, no choice, or no chance. After a visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and multiple enlightening engagements this week, it is evident that each of us with a rural or agricultural background needs to tell our story. Listen with intention, engage to learn, teach, be respectful, and tell your story. We all matter and can't sit on the sidelines and let the world decide for us.
On the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives
The most significant moment of the trip for me was when we got to go onto the floor of the House of Representatives during our evening Capitol tour with Rep. Finstad. That is where real business happens in the form of debate and decisions that run our country. Each representative who works there represents around 750,000 citizens, so we were among the very few who got to be in that room. The next day, while watching from the visitor gallery during the House's session, I enjoyed seeing the work in action as they debated newsworthy matters.
