Program Overview
The Ambassador Program is designed to provide associates of CoBank and its affiliated associations an opportunity to expand their knowledge of public policy and the funding foundations of the Farm Credit System (FCS) to become better prepared to defend them in Washington, DC and in state legislatures.
Participants will receive monthly communications beginning in March and continuing through November 2024. During the program, Ambassadors will complete assignments and participate in hour-long monthly conference calls. All Ambassadors are expected to participate in both program trips. The program will take place in three different locations:
May 20-21, 2024 | Denver, CO
Participants will get acquainted with each other, learn from previous Ambassadors about what to expect, receive an introduction to the Ambassador Program and learn their role in advocating for Farm Credit. During the meeting, Ambassadors will hear from CoBank President and CEO, Tom Halverson, on the importance of grassroots engagement and Brian Cavey, CoBank's Senior Vice President of Government Affairs & Knowledge Exchange, who will provide an introduction to Farm Credit’s place in Washington, DC.
September 29 - October 1, 2024 | New York, NY
Participants will focus on the Farm Credit System's funding mechanism through meetings with the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation, financial industry experts and members of Farm Credit's debt securities selling group.
October 1-3, 2024 | Washington, DC
Participants will receive training in delivering Farm Credit's message on Capitol Hill. In addition, Ambassadors will meet and interact with key figures at the Farm Credit Administration (FCA); leaders from organizations representing farmers, agricultural cooperatives, rural electric cooperatives, and other industry sectors; and public policy and political experts with a deep knowledge of issues impacting Farm Credit.
Participants will conclude their experience by advocating for Farm Credit during visits to their respective Members of the U.S. House and Senate.