The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities has honored two NDSU leaders for their accomplishments as fellows of the Food Systems Leadership Institute.

John McEvoy, department head of microbiological sciences, and Charlie Stoltenow, NDSU Extension assistant director, were recognized for contributions they have made to NDSU and the broader higher education and food systems during a virtual ceremony at the APLU annual meeting.

“The FSLI experience helped to put into context the breadth, depth and impact American agriculture has on the world,” said Stoltenow. “It also helped me assess my strength and areas of growth in order to serve the residents of North Dakota, on and off the farm.”

The FSLI is a two-year executive leadership development program designed for experienced leaders in academia, government and industry. The curriculum includes three executive-style residential sessions, individual coaching, mentoring and personal projects. The program aims to enhance personal leadership ability, develop skills for organizational change and broaden perspectives on integrated food systems.

“FSLI gave me access to diverse leaders and leadership ideas from across agriculture, Extension and higher education,” said McEvoy. “While personal development is an important part of the program, my most valuable takeaway is a renewed appreciation of our land grand mission, which is more relevant now than ever before.”

McEvoy earned his bachelor’s degree from the Institute of Technology, Carlow, Ireland, and his doctorate from Ulster University, Northern Ireland.

Stoltenow earned his bachelor’s degree from NDSU and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University.

The FSLI is a program of the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities. It was created with financial support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and is operated in a partnership between North Carolina State University, The Ohio State University and California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.