Lead the Future of Agriculture, Food, and the Environment

Want to make a real impact? The Martin-Gatton Student Leadership Academy is your chance to grow as a leader and shape the future of agriculture, food, and the environment. This two-year experience gives you the tools, real-world experiences, and connections to thrive in your future career—and beyond.

A virtual information session will take place Nov. 12 from 5-6 p.m. ET. Register to attend.

Applications open annually in November. The deadline to apply is Dec. 3 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Apply Now

What You’ll Do

  • Take leadership-focused courses
  • Travel in-state and out-of-state for immersive, hands-on learning experiences
  • Connect with peers and industry professionals
  • Gain hands-on experience through professional, service-learning, and community-based projects

From exploring Kentucky’s agricultural innovations to discovering national industry trends, you’ll build skills and relationships that will last a lifetime.

Why Join

  • Cohort experience: Learn and grow with a close-knit group of peers.
  • Professional mentorship: Get guidance from faculty, staff, alumni, and industry leaders.
  • Career readiness: Build essential employability skills—communication, critical thinking, teamwork, adaptability, networking, and much more.
  • Real-world impact: Apply what you’ve learned through service-learning, community-based projects, and industry collaborations.
Martin-Gatton Student Leadership Academy text logo

Who Can Apply?

  • Full-time students enrolled in a major in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
  • Sophomore or junior standing at the program start
  • Good academic standing
  • Ability to enroll in required courses and attend scheduled activities

Program Highlights

  • Courses: Take two in-person leadership courses, AFE 342 Agricultural Leadership Foundations (3 credits) and AFE 490 Agricultural Leadership Applications (3 credits)—putting you on the path to earn the Agricultural Leadership Certificate.
  • Learning Journeys: Travel in-state and out-of-state for immersive, hands-on learning experiences.
  • Leadership Summits: Connect with faculty, staff, alumni, and industry leaders to reflect on your growth and celebrate your achievements.
  • Graduation Recognition and Future Engagement: Earn a medal or cord and join a growing alumni network.
  • Future Engagement Opportunities: Graduates are invited to return as mentors for future cohorts.

Note: Some travel costs will be the responsibility of the student, but program staff will help you find funding support.

Ready to Grow?

Applications open annually in November. Apply now.

  • Application deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 11:59 p.m. ET
  • Interviews: Thursday, Dec. 11 and Friday, Dec. 12 (Reading Days)

Nominations by faculty, staff, or peers are welcome. Please email nominations to Dr. Savannah Robin at savannah.robin@uky.edu.

Questions?

Center for Student Success
N6 Agricultural Science Center 
1100 South Limestone
Lexington, KY 40546
859-257-3469
CAFEscholarships@uky.edu