The American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers is proud to offer the Leadership Excellence (LEX) Program, sponsored by Pioneer. LEX is a three-phase leadership development and networking series designed to support both emerging and established leaders through intentional learning, real-world application, and meaningful connection.

Rather than a single event, LEX is structured as a progressive experience — building leadership skills over time and culminating in a unique advocacy-focused experience in Washington, DC.

Space is limited for each phase. Participation builds from one phase to the next.

Phase 1: Leadership Foundations

Completed for the current series. The next series will begin in 2027. – Denver, Colorado

Phase 1 launched the current LEX cohort with immersive leadership programming, personal development, and relationship-building. Participants focused on communication, innovation, leadership confidence, and professional growth while building strong peer connections that carry through the entire series.

Phase 2: Applied Leadership & Industry Engagement

April 6-8 2026 | Johnston, Iowa

Hosted at Corteva Agriscience

Phase 2 brings participants together for a focused, one-day leadership experience centered on applied leadership skills, collaboration, and industry engagement. This phase builds on the foundation established in Phase 1 and prepares participants for the capstone experience in Washington, DC.

Cost: Registration is free. Participants are responsible for travel and hotel accommodations.

Phase 3: Advocacy & Leadership Experience

September 21-24 2026 | Washington, DC

Phase 3 is the culminating experience of the Leadership Excellence Program. Participants will engage directly with policy makers, receive advocacy and legislative briefings, and gain firsthand insight into how leadership and policy intersect at the national level.

This immersive experience includes leadership programming, networking dinners, meals, and a guided night tour of Washington, DC.

Cost: Includes all programming, three hotel nights, meals, and networking events.

Why Participate in the Full Series?

Leadership Excellence (LEX) is a three-phase program designed to foster long-term leadership growth. Each phase builds intentionally on the last, giving participants the opportunity to apply new skills over time, grow in confidence, and deepen their connections across the profession.

To maintain the integrity and impact of the program, participants must complete Phase 1 to be eligible for Phase 2, and both Phase 1 and Phase 2 are required to advance to the final experience in Washington, DC (Phase 3). Each new LEX cohort begins with Phase 1, which is offered every two years. New participants may only enter the program at this starting point.

If you’re interested in joining the next LEX cohort or have questions about timing, eligibility, or what to expect, we encourage you to connect with the ASFMRA team. We’d be happy to help you plan your path through this transformative leadership journey.

LEX was an extremely valuable experience. In a short three days I walked away with a higher level of confidence, new knowledge about myself and my leadership skills and a whole new roster of people to add to my 'phone a friend' list. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to develop themselves in their career!