iLEAD Announces Members of Cohort V

by Lisa Davis - April 21, 2025

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is proud to announce the members of the fifth cohort of the Internal Leadership Education And Development (iLEAD) program. This initiative continues to build a strong foundation for leadership within the organization, cultivating the next generation of leaders through meaningful experiences, personal reflection, and collaborative learning.

iLEAD is designed to provide Division of Agriculture professionals with immersive leadership development through a combination of training, hands-on activities, and peer interaction. By identifying and addressing real-world challenges, participants will grow their capacity to lead effectively, think strategically, and drive positive organizational change.

Participants of Cohort V will engage in a year-long journey that focuses on:

• Enhancing interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Exploring leadership roles and responsibilities within the land-grant mission
• Gaining a deeper understanding of Arkansas communities and public policy
• Expanding their vision to meet the challenges of a dynamic social, political, economic, and environmental landscape

Please join us in congratulating the following individuals selected for iLEAD Cohort V:

1. Samantha Barker, Video Conferencing Manager, LRSO - IT
2. Renae Blackmon, Administrative Specialist III, LRSO - Animal Science
3. Tyler Caston, County Extension Agent - Staff Chair, Stone County
4. Rachel Chaney, Program Associate - Health, LRSO
5. Wesley France, Program Associate, Precision Agriculture, CSES CROP, Fayetteville
6. Marla Lane, County Extension Agent - Family and Consumer Science/Staff Chair, St. Francis County
7. Casey M. Owens, Professor, UA-Fayetteville
8. Lacie Rothrock, Human Resource Generalist, DTYS
9. Nytalya Salter, Leave Specialist, LRSO
10. Spring Sneed, Regional Accountant, ASU, NERREC, NERE, CTST, Judd Hill
11. Rita Watson, Program Associate - Virtual Education, LRSO
12. Adam Willis, County Extension Agent - Staff Chair, Newton County
13. Betty Wingfield, County Extension Agent - 4-H, Hempstead County
14. Brandon Wodka, Rosen Center Director, UA-Fayetteville

This diverse and talented group of professionals represents the breadth and depth of expertise across the Division of Agriculture. Through the iLEAD program, they will build connections, explore innovative approaches to leadership, and emerge ready to help shape the future of the organization.

We look forward to the growth, insight, and impact that Cohort V will bring. Congratulations to all the participants.