A student at Murray State University majoring in Agriculture Education, had a few questions for NAFDMA's Executive Director, Suzi Spahr. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and join in on the chat!

1. How would you describe the purposes of your organization?

Our general mission is to provide education, networking, and resources to our membership and for the greater good of the agritourism industry. We do this in a variety of ways, but with a focus on events which bring farm owners and managers together so they can learn from each other. We also find experts in a variety of topics to provide educational sessions, provide template resources (for employee manuals, emergency prep situations, etc), and do on-line webinars to share the information.

2. How would you describe your role in the organization?

My role is the Executive Director. I like to use an analogy of a beach ball to explain the role of everyone in our organization. On a beach ball, there are different colored stripes. Each one of our managers "lives" on a stripe of the ball. From their perspective, they see things from the vantage point of that stripe, and know the various areas on their stripe very well (this can be Education, Membership, Operations, Marketing, Communication, etc). My role is to be at the top of the beach ball where all the stripes intersect. I see the perspective of all the pieces of the organization, and ensure each of the stripes come together to make a cohesive ball. My Board of Directors is in charge of determining the "direction" in which the ball is headed in the air. Their focus is on strategic planning and setting the path for our organization to head. 

In addition, I am also the financial controller for the organization, so pay the bills, manage the budget, and report our financial position to the board. 

3. From your perspective, what does the term "agriculture leadership" mean?

It means looking at what is best for the industry, and doing whatever you can to help bring that into reality. Everyone can be a leader, even if they are new to their professional position. It is about looking toward personal and professional growth, and using that growth for the overall benefit of the agriculture industry, in whatever capacity that may be.

4. How would you describe your own approach to agricultural leadership?

I ascribe to the Servant Leadership approach. It is my job to ensure that those around me have the skills, knowledge, and information to be able to lead in their own capacity. This applies to those who work for me as employees, but also for members of our organization. If I can help provide anyone in the agriculture industry with the skills, knowledge, and information they need to be their best selves, then I am providing leadership in agriculture.

5. What advice would you give to someone who may be preparing to take on a leadership role in the agriculture industry in the future?

Learn as much as you can about all aspects of agriculture. Ask questions - do not presume you know the answer. Recognize that this world is vast, and there are many different "right" ways to farm - depending on the climate, culture, and other local conditions. Take advantage of all opportunities for personal growth and seek out those who can help you learn, while also challenging what you have learned in the past.