K-State Research and Extension

K-State opens applications for 2023 animal science leadership academy

Program open to 20 high school students interested in livestock-related careers

March 17, 2023

K-State Research and Extension news service 

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State University’s Department of Animal Sciences and Industry is opening its doors this summer to high school students who have an interest in becoming leaders in the livestock industry and related careers.

Department officials have announced that applications are now open for the Kansas State University Animal Science Leadership Academy, known as KASLA, set for June 21-24 in Manhattan.

The academy is an intensive four-day educational experience designed to enhance the leadership skills and animal science knowledge of students in grades 9-12. The program is co-sponsored by the Livestock and Meat Industry Council, Inc.

Officials said only 20 students will be accepted for the 2023 session to ensure individualized attention from counselors, professors and industry leaders.

“This program is a great opportunity for future agriculture leaders to visit campus to get an inside look at the opportunities our department and the agriculture industry provides,” said Mike Day, head of the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry. “This program helps build the future of the livestock industry and we appreciate all the industry stakeholders and companies that contribute to the program to make it a success.”

This is the 14th year of the academy. Applications are due April 15 and can be found at asi.ksu.edu/kasla. A $50 fee is due upon acceptance; additional costs are covered by the Livestock and Meat Industry Council.

The program’s itinerary features interactive workshops, tours and faculty mentor time with K-State professors. Industry leaders will also share their knowledge and expertise. Throughout the week, participants will work in teams to evaluate current events in the animal science industry, culminating in team presentations.

More information is available by sending email to academy director Sharon Breiner, sbreiner@ksu.edu, or by calling 785-532-6533.

The Kansas State University Department of Animal Sciences and Industry serves students, livestock producers and the animal and food industries through teaching, research and education. The K-State ASI department prepares students for careers in the animal and food industries. The curriculum includes the study of nutrition, reproduction, genetics, behavior, meat science and food science with production, management, and agribusiness skills. For more about the K-State’s ASI department visit asi.ksu.edu.

The Livestock and Meat Industry Council is dedicated to facilitating interdisciplinary research that identifies and addresses issues/opportunities facing animal agriculture and the efficient production of food. The Council solicits volunteer contributions including money, land, livestock, equipment and other bequests in support of approved priorities and initiatives within the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, in cooperation with the College of Agriculture at K-State.