By, With, and Through: National Defense University
Neither rain, mist, nor our sore feet would stop us from setting forth on the morning of March 6th. We were on a mission to traverse the bustling streets of Washington DC to the National Defense University. Leadership is seen as synonymous with our nation’s Military which is recognized by the world nations and governments here a set of 24 CA Ag Leaders are fortunate to be taught by those who defend our rights and freedom to work in our vital industry of agriculture.
As we arrived at the National Defense University (NDU) the 2nd oldest active army post in the United States, Class 53 prepared to learn leadership skills and traits from members of our honorable military. We were greeted by Director Ken Kligge, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col) Nicholas Amato, and Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col) Eric Burger to showcase to Class 53 why leadership is near and dear to the military. The NDU vision to create strategic advantage by developing joint warfighters and other national security leaders and forging relationships through whole-of-nation and whole-of-government educational programs, research, and engagement is exemplified in the speakers’ Alternative Futures Exercise.
The Alternate Futures Exercise taught us the adaptation of various alternative futures approaches to examine potential future worlds and outcomes. The exercise requires we remain curious about potential, think spectrally with a diversity of ideas, and zoom out on issues to view their true scale and connection. Lt Col Burger emphasized that leaders should think strategically and critically when dealing with complex issues and not lose sight that leadership is a human endeavor and people’s personalities matter and should not be overlooked. Lt. Col Burger stated, “By, with, and through”, which means leaders cannot do things in isolation. It is leaders’ responsibility to teach and learn from one another as the marvelous National Defense University does for our military and other country leaders in its goal to build stronger relationships with other nations and governments for a safe and prosperous future for all. Class 53 thanks our military veterans and active duty personnel for their service to our country and the continued servant leadership they shared with us.
Food Security is National Security
Congressman Jim Costa hails from the Central Valley, and it shows. He exudes warmth, friendliness, and kindness – just like the people he represents. When he entered the room, Congressman Costa took the time to greet each of us personally, showing genuine interest through his questions. Such small gestures leave a big impact. His respect and generosity toward our class served as an exemplary model for how we should engage within our own spheres of influence.
Congressman Costa emphasized that our nation stands at a pivotal moment in history, a juncture that began to take shape in 2008 with the advent of the iPhone. He discussed the implications of emerging technology and social media, highlighting the direct link between agriculture, food security, and national security.
In a time when the United States is deeply divided, teetering on the brink of several conflicts, and grappling with economic and technological shifts, Congressman Costa’s assertion rings true – this is indeed a pivotal moment. Future history books will write about the era we are currently living through. When the stakes are this high, Congressman Costa stressed the importance of embracing the politics of hope over the politics of fear.
Living Up To Our Values
We also had the privilege of speaking with Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren, who represents California’s 18th District, including four of our classmates. Lofgren’s presence illuminated the room the second she arrived. She shared her humble beginnings and her journey from the Board of Supervisors to Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, underscoring her deep-rooted passion for government and civic engagement instilled by her parents, who believed fervently that the government belonged to the people. Her decision to run for Congress stemmed from a sense of duty and service to her country.
The mood turned somber as Congresswoman Lofgren recounted her experience on the House Floor during the events of January 6th. She expressed the difficulty of witnessing some of her colleagues attempt to explain away the events of January 6th for political expediency, despite their shared experience on the house floor. Reflecting on Congresswoman Lofgren’s experience prompts us to contemplate what it means to live up to our values. As future leaders, we will inevitably confront tough decisions and challenging circumstances. Yet, it is reassuring to know that this program is equipping us to face them head-on with courage and integrity, rather than resorting to evasion to sidestep difficult choices.
Pressure Testing Slow Government
Following our discussions with members of Congress, we had the opportunity to engage with Anne Knapke, the Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy in the Office of the Secretary of Agriculture. Anne’s background is intriguing – prior to her tenure in the Executive Branch, she worked for the Gates Foundation and served as Senator Amy Klobuchar’s Legislative Director. Anne exuded an energy and tenacity rarely associated with government work, precisely what she aimed to challenge in her public service endeavors. A good friend of our DoE, it’s clear why Dane holds her in such high regard.
Anne offered our class invaluable insights into combating complacency and decision paralysis. She outlined three common reasons for project stagnation: lack of skills or expertise, inadequate understanding of the problem or project scope, or reluctance to proceed. Anne encouraged our class to introspect and identify which of these factors might be impeding progress, emphasizing that acknowledging it is the first step to getting unstuck. We all agreed we could’ve thoroughly enjoyed far more time with Anne! She’s a model public servant and example of what it means to be a reflective and thoughtful leader.
Let the restlessness help you take the leap!
Anne Knapke
Growing Together
We wrapped up our evening with a finale dinner to celebrate and commemorate this turning point in our fellowship. We used it to create a special time to acknowledge and honor each other. Each of us had 30 seconds to express what we liked and admired about our roommate. Needless to say, we went over the allotted time. Every single time.
When considering applying for this program, there’s a lot of information about how you’ll grow as an individual, but little is said for how you will grow as a team. The bond we’ve forged as a class is unbreakable. It’s one thing to evolve on your own, but to grow alongside 23 other remarkable leaders is both humbling and inspiring. This is a truth we’re only just beginning to comprehend.
Goodbye, DC.
During our final reflection, many fellows remarked on the truly exceptional nature of this program. It has gifted us with experiences that would have been otherwise inaccessible.
Our time in DC has provided our class with perspective, propelled us to take more action in our communities, and fortified our resolve to effect positive change in the world. Congressman Costa was right – we are at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, and the choices we make now will shape the future for generations to come. Being in DC underscored the significance of leadership and the urgency to act. It brings to mind a quote by Abraham Lincoln:
It is not merely for today, but for all time to come that we should perpetuate for our children’s children this great and free government, which we have enjoyed all our lives. I beg you to remember this, not merely for my sake, but for yours. The nation is worth fighting for, to secure such an inestimable jewel.”
President Abraham Lincoln
Tomorrow we head home; changed and more thoughtful and aware of the role we can each play to make our communities, our industry and this nation a better place for all.
Gratefully,
Hillari, Ariana, Tomas and the members of Class 53
