UNL appoints new director of Nebraska's LEAD Program

LINCOLN, Neb. — An appointment has been made for the next director of the Nebraska LEAD Program.

According to the University of Nebraska Lincoln (UNL), Kurtis Harms has been appointed as the next director of the Nebraska LEAD Program. His appointment, effective June 1, follows the retirement of Terry Hejny, who served as the program’s director for 17 years.

The Nebraska LEAD Program, established over 42 years ago, focuses on nurturing agricultural leaders across the state.

UNL said that hosted within the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, LEAD has had numerous individuals who have gone on to hold pivotal roles in local, county, and statewide offices.

Harms, a participant in the 40th class of the program, expressed his enthusiasm for continuing LEAD's impactful legacy. “The LEAD Program has a very strong foundation, and LEAD fellows have had an incredible impact on Nebraska,” said Harms. “I’m excited to continue that legacy.”

With a vision to engage younger Nebraskans, Harms plans to forge partnerships with organizations like 4-H, FFA, and other youth leadership programs. He aims to broaden opportunities for LEAD graduates to remain connected and involved in the program's mission.

“I think there is an opportunity to connect the dots before and after the Nebraska LEAD Program,” he remarked.

For the past two years, he served as the director of marketing for Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics, overseeing marketing strategy and communications.

Previously, he held the position of director of communications for the Nebraska Corn Board and spent a decade as the executive director of Market Journal, UNL’s weekly agricultural television program.

Additionally, Harms has contributed to UNL’s Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Communications program as a course instructor.

Mike Boehm, NU vice president and Harlan Vice Chancellor for IANR, commended Harms’ dedication to Nebraska agriculture.

“Kurtis has spent his entire career advocating for Nebraska agriculture, its future, and, most importantly, its people,” said Boehm. “He brings energy, fresh ideas, and incredible passion to this position, and I am confident LEAD will flourish under his leadership.”

The Nebraska LEAD Program is currently accepting applications for its 43rd class until June 15. To learn more about Nebraska LEAD or to apply, visit LEAD.unl.edu.