Russell's Ochampaugh Completes KARL Leadership Program

Andrew Ochampaugh of Russell was among 27 people who celebrated completion of the Kansas Agricultural and Rural Leadership (KARL) Program advance leadership development experience during the KARL Big Event on Saturday, June 4 in Manhattan.

Since it started in 1989, more than 450 men and women have participated in KARL and are leaders and active volunteers in the agriculture industry and rural communities.

“KARL identifies, prepares and connects aspiring leaders to positively impact Kansas agriculture and rural communities, and is part of the International Association of Program for Agriculture Leadership,” explained the program's president Jill Zimmerman. “KARL grows leaders who make a difference and go on to lead in agriculture, their businesses, communities and families.”

Each class experiences a two-year curriculum of 52 seminar days across the state of Kansas, a national study tour to Washington, D.C. and to the Gettysburg Leadership Experience at the historic battleground, a domestic study tour, and also an international study tour.

Ochampaugh is a graduate of Russell High School and employed by Agrilead, Inc. of Russell.

Andrea Krauss from Russell has been chosen to participate in the next KARL advance leadership development class.