Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team

Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team

The next CAT application cycle is now closed. The next cycle will open August 2026.

Why apply for the Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team?

The future of Iowa Corn depends on the organization’s ability to offer relevant programming, advocacy and services to new stakeholders entering Iowa’s agricultural sector who will be potential supporters and leaders of Iowa Corn. These stakeholders include students who are pursuing careers in Iowa’s agriculture industry, and we want your help! Join the Collegiate Advisory Team to meet college students from all over Iowa, participate in training and learn more about Iowa’s corn industry.

Who can apply?

Any post-secondary student who has completed high school and is attending an Iowa college or university to pursue a career in agriculture. Up to 24 students are selected. Getting representation from all Iowa universities and colleges is a priority. Typically, one (sometimes 2) student is selected from each school. Iowa State can be represented by up to six students. We encourage students to apply again if they did not get in their first year applying.

2024-2025 Schedule

• Session 1: November 13 – 14, 2025 – Iowa Corn Office – Johnston, IA
• Session 2: January 22 – 23, 2026 – Capitol Visit & Iowa Corn Office – Des Moines and Johnston, IA 
• Session 3: April 2 – 3, 2026 – Iowa Corn Office – Johnston, IA
• 2026 Iowa Corn Grassroots Summit (optional) – All college students and Iowa Corn members are invited

CAT members will be encouraged to get involved locally and participate in local, district and other state activities and events as they have time.

Cost:

Meals, lodging, and other expenses will be paid for by Iowa Corn, which includes a $50 ethanol gift card for events to cover gas. Students who attend all sessions will be eligible to receive a $200 scholarship in April of 2025. CAT Members must pay the $20 membership fee to become an Iowa Corn student member.

What is the Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team?

The Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team assists the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) in developing programs that target and enhance Iowa Corn’s relationship with those individuals who are pursuing careers in agricultural production and allied industries. This Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team is in its fifteenth year.  

Collegiate Team Experiences and Trainings:

• Gallup StrengthsFinder Training
• Interact with legislators at the Iowa Capitol
• Network with other Iowa College Agriculture Leaders
• Meet board members and have the opportunity to attend a committee or board meeting
• Agriculture business and farm tours

Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team members must:

• Sign a form agreeing to attend three sessions during the year, as well as other Iowa Corn activities as determined by staff and the team (and as student schedules permit)
• Be available via email and by phone during the year for team discussions
• Prepare as needed for team sessions
• Be willing to consider new ideas and experiences

Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team Objectives:

• To engage with collegiate members of Iowa Corn and create a presence on Iowa college campuses
• Increase awareness and appreciation for the role and impact of Iowa Corn and the agriculture industry in terms of local, national, and global economic impacts
• Select and develop appropriate program components for ongoing student programs
• Distribute funding among various student organizations using criteria developed by the team
• Assist with the development of Iowa Corn student and youth outreach programs
• Create and develop future leaders for Iowa Corn and the agriculture industry

2024-2025 Collegiate Advisory Team

For more information, contact:

Denise Forney

Vice President of Talent and Organizational Development
5505 NW 88th Street, Johnston, IA 50131
(515) 225-9242 | dforney@iowacorn.org