Hastings Woman Graduates from National Farm Bureau Leadership Program

Amanda Durow completes two-year Partners in Advocacy Leadership program focused on agriculture advocacy and policy

Mar. 17, 2026 at 7:51pm

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Amanda Durow of Hastings, Minnesota has graduated from the American Farm Bureau Federation's (AFBF) Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) program, a two-year initiative designed to develop the advocacy skills of emerging agricultural leaders across the country. Durow was one of only ten participants nationwide selected for PAL Class 12, which included leadership experiences, policy training, and an international trip to South Africa.

Why it matters

The PAL program helps cultivate a new generation of agriculture advocates who can effectively represent the interests of farmers, ranchers, and rural communities in policy discussions at the national level. Durow's graduation demonstrates Minnesota's commitment to developing strong agricultural leadership and ensuring the state's farming communities have a powerful voice in Washington.

The details

As part of the PAL program, Durow and her nine classmates completed four learning modules and traveled throughout the U.S. and internationally to strengthen their understanding of agricultural policy, trade, labor, and global food systems. The class trip to South Africa focused on global labor issues, agricultural markets, and cross-cultural farming practices. These experiences helped prepare Durow to speak up for U.S. farmers and ensure rural communities have a strong and informed voice in policymaking.

  • Amanda Durow graduated from the PAL program in March 2026 during the Young Farmers & Ranchers Conference in Portland, Oregon.
  • Durow was selected for PAL Class 12, which was a two-year program.

The players

Amanda Durow

A fifth generation crop and dairy farmer and agribusiness lender from Hastings, Minnesota who was one of ten participants nationwide selected for the American Farm Bureau Federation's Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) program Class 12.

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF)

A national organization representing agricultural and farming interests that runs the Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) program to develop advocacy skills among emerging agricultural leaders.

Dan Glessing

The President of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation.

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What they’re saying

“The PAL program pushed me outside my comfort zone in a way that felt constructive and growth-oriented. I'm more prepared to speak up, represent agriculture well and step into leadership opportunities with confidence.”

— Amanda Durow

“We're proud of our PAL graduates and the dedication they've shown throughout the program. Their commitment to strengthening their advocacy skills will make a meaningful difference in rural communities across the nation.”

— Zippy Duvall, AFBF President

What’s next

Durow plans to continue her advocacy work with the Dakota County Farm Bureau and other agriculture groups in her local community, as well as engage in national discussions on trade, labor, and agricultural policy.

The takeaway

The graduation of Amanda Durow and nine other agricultural leaders from the AFBF's Partners in Advocacy Leadership program demonstrates Minnesota's commitment to developing a new generation of strong voices for farmers and rural communities at the national level. The program's focus on policy, trade, and global agricultural issues helps ensure these advocates are prepared to effectively represent the interests of the state's agricultural sector.