STUDENTS
At the Flinchbaugh Center, involving students in ag and food policy is a core mission, driven by Dr. Flinchbaugh's passion for nurturing the future leaders in this vital field.
Policy decisions shape production agriculture, food security, sustainability, and rural life, impacting everything from farm support to environmental conservation. This field offers exciting career paths in government, advocacy, research, and agribusiness, with roles in policy creation, data analysis, and community outreach.
Join us and grow your future in the ever-important world of agriculture.
Flinchbaugh Fellowship Alumni
"Policy has an influence on everyone from the family farmer to the CEO of a large agribusiness. Interning with Michael Torrey Associates strengthened skill sets that will apply to any career I may choose."
Sarah Franklin, 2017
Ag Policy Fellow Alumni
"During my time in Washington, D.C. I witnessed some major historical moments including the inauguration of the 45th president, Donald Trump, the confirmation hearing of U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Purdue, and the confirmation of our newest Supreme Court Justice, Neil Gorsuch. Even more important were the networking experiences made available that lead me to my current career ambitions."
Jackie Garagiola, 2017
Ag Policy Fellow Alumni
“My internships with KGFA and Rep. Mann taught me the importance of humility and curiosity – asking thoughtful questions, being willing to try (and fail), and accepting advice are important skills when working in policy.”
Abby Goins, 2021
Water is one of the defining issues for the future of Kansas agriculture, and the Kansas NextGen Ogallala Scholars Program was created to prepare young leaders to face it head-on.
Designed for high school students across Southwest Kansas, the program provides immersive learning experiences focused on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the Ogallala Aquifer, one of the state’s most vital and threatened water resources.
Through workshops, policy simulations, and industry tours, students learn how science, economics, and policy intersect to drive sustainable water management. Participants gain leadership, communication, and research skills while engaging in real-world projects that make an impact in their local communities.
Drawing on the insights and learnings during and post the inaugural cohort (2026), the Flinchbaugh Center, alongside rural education leaders, water policy partners, and national agricultural networks, will assess the opportunities to scale the Kansas NextGen Ogallala Scholars model. This program was built for future growth including expansion into other states, ability to embed aquifer science and civic engagement into rural classrooms, and to design a replicable framework for addressing other pressing rural challenges such as broadband access, rural healthcare, and workforce retention.
Applications due January 23
