"The emphasis should be on why we do a job."   --W. Edwards Deming

For KARL, the positive opportunity from the pandemic disruption has been to reflect on WHY and HOW KARL can prepare for an even greater role in the future for Kansas agriculture and rural communities. What is our "Why" and "Why do we do what we do" and "How can it be done"...  

In today's climate of so many "options," KARL is not an orientation program, it is a LEADERSHIP program.  When it comes to helping Kansas and rural communities thrive, the challenges are great, and the stakes are high. It doesn't just take great ideas, but bold citizens committed to change for the better. That's why KARL identifies, prepares, and connects aspiring leaders. KARL challenges people to think differently, while connecting them to people and resources that help transform organizations, communities, our state, our world. 

We have a renewed focus to protect and build upon on our WHY. Staff and leadership are committed to continued work for an overall standard of excellence. Actions include:

• Continued engagement of Class XV Associates through virtual outreach, and then in-person, with respect and consideration of Covid-19
• Strengthening the Program through resource development
• Reviewing all facets of the Program and its curriculum, adjusting as appropriate
• Intentional communications
• Board training and review of committee structure and objectives
• Increased engagement with KARL Fellows (alumni)

“Without a standard, there is no logical basis for making a decision or taking action.” -- Juran

We know that a standard of excellence is momentary. A standard must be held in high regard, but it must also change over time. Change for the better. Change for growth. Positive growth is not easy and cannot be done alone. When we unleash the potential across Kansas, anything is possible. 

And, anything worth doing, is worth doing WELL. 

As always, feel free to contact us with any questions, suggestions or concerns: karl@ksu.edu 

#BeLegendary. #BeGrateful. 

Register in advance: http://bit.ly/37xQWMv

You are INVITED to join KARL on Tuesday, March 23 at 7:15 p.m. for our KARL Café, a virtual conversation among the KARL network focused on current issues. 

The conversation will feature Chelsea Good class XII Fellow and Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs and Legal at Livestock Marketing Association. Chelsea is a graduate of Washburn University School of Law. She also has a master's degree in communications and journalism; political science, and public relations, all from Kansas State University.

Chelsea will be joined by special guests John Donley, Devine &Donley, LLC and Terry Holdren, Kansas Farm Bureau.  

Once registered, you will receive email confirmation and information about joining this special edition KARL Café.

"Effective Communications and Human Relations" We are excited to announce a leadership training option that will serve rural areas in Kansas.  Dale Carnegie - Kansas Heartland is offering a public on-line live Dale Carnegie program that is a great option for leaders in rural Kansas who do not have easy access to attend a Dale Carnegie Course in Wichita or other metros. Until now, this had only been offered for larger companies wanting private courses.

Dale Carnegie of the Heartland is offering KARL graduates and supporters the opportunity to participate with a 20% team discount off the regular price of $1,995. Your investment would be $1596. The course is limited to 17 participants.

Live-on-line training has been a part of Dale Carnegie for over 10 years. Their live-on-line training events are facilitated and delivered on a training platform designed for in-the-moment coaching and personal interaction. 

Dale Carnegie’s Effective Communications and Human Relations program will meet on Tuesdays, March 16-May 11, Noon-3:00 PM (no session April 13).

You can access this discount by using promo code: KARL2021 (must be Kansas resident to register).

Until next time, be safe and stay connected. #BeLegendary