What is YDLI?

The Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI) is the premier leadership program in the dairy industry. Young adults, ages 22-45, apply for the program which consists of three phases over a one-year period. Two three-day, interactive meetings bookend tasks that participants complete in their home communities to practice what they learn and build confidence. Networking is an important part of YDLI, with many graduates citing they have gained friends and resources for life from the program.

Through interactive training sessions and working closely with industry experts and dynamic leaders, YDLI participants will strengthen themselves in areas of:

Interpersonal communications

Team culture

Growth mindset

Embracing change

Advocacy & influence

Community & industry involvement

YDLI’s Program Creates Impact Through its Three-Phased Approach

  • YDLI Phase I

    Face-to-face three-day meeting with class members focusing on understanding themselves better, working with teams effectively, and consumer communication.

  • YDLI Phase II

    Participants complete a mix of assigned tasks and self-selected areas of focus to put practice their new skills and build confidence. Each class member is held accountable by their mentor and peers and give a capstone presentation on their Phase II outcomes.

  • YDLI Phase III

    Face-to-face three-day meeting with class members one year following the Phase I meeting. More advanced advocacy training and having greater influence is the focus.

Interested in applying for YDLI?

Applications are due every other year in August. Enrollment of the program is limited so more one-on-one instruction may be provided. If you are interested in finding out when applications are available for the next class, complete the form below.

YDLI Interest Form

Sponsors

The Holstein Foundation is the primary supporting organization behind YDLI, along with support from several generous organizations. Their support helps offset program and material development, expert workshop leaders and speakers, as well as meal costs.

YDLI participants are responsible for a $750 tuition fee, air and ground transportation, hotel and other incidental expenses. Participants may seek sponsorship on their own to help cover their program attendance costs. Roommates can be arranged to help offset hotel expenses.

View YDLI Class 14 Sponsors

YDLI Advisory Committee

A volunteer YDLI Advisory Committee offers guidance in program development and serves as mentors for YDLI participants. Currently serving on the YDLI Advisory Committee are:

  • Tera Baker, Three Oaks, MI
    — YDLI Class 10

  • Ellen Cushing, Hustisford, WI
    — YDLI Class 11

  • Alisa DeWitt, Avondale, AZ
    — YDLI Class 11

  • Kimmi Devaney, Coeur d’Alene, ID
    — YDLI Class 8

  • Caroline Knoblock, Dayton, OH
    — YDLI Class 12

  • Kimberley Morrill, Winthrop, NY
    — YDLI Class 6

  • Spencer Peck, Tulare, CA
    — YDLI Class 12

  • Carlyn Peterson, West Sacramento, CA
    — YDLI Class 13

  • Wayne Worden, Sauquoit, NY
    — YDLI Class 9