WASHINGTON – National Farmers Union (NFU) hosted 71 students and educators in Minneapolis from February 13 to February 16 for the annual College Conference on Cooperatives (CCOC). The three-day conference provided an interactive and collaborative experience for the next generation of American agricultural leaders on the relevancy, structure, benefits and operations of various types of cooperative businesses.
“Cooperatives have long played a vital role in bolstering rural and urban communities alike – which is why Farmers Union established this program decades ago,” said NFU Senior Director of Engagement Emma McCormick. “We can help immerse tomorrow’s agricultural leaders in cooperative business principles and structures by presenting them with the many opportunities available to them through the cooperative model.”
NFU’s CCOC hosted representatives from both long-established and emerging cooperatives. They shared insights on cooperative careers, development, membership engagement and leadership. Students heard from representatives from Compeer Financial, Organic Valley / CROPP Cooperative, Northcountry Cooperative Foundation, Equal Exchange, and others, as well as featured speakers from several universities. In addition, participants visited several area cooperative organizations, including Seward Community Co-op, Riverton Community Housing, and My Credit Union.
“NFU was founded on the core principles of education, civic engagement and cooperation, and we proudly build on that foundation today with in-person learning experiences like CCOC,” McCormick added. “Thanks to the support of our sponsors, NFU is able to provide cooperative education beyond the farm and ranch gate to young leaders from college campuses across the United States.”
This year’s conference was made possible by premier supporters CHS Foundation, Federated Youth Foundation, Blaze Credit Union, Cooperative Development Foundation, and NFU Foundation. National Farmers Union also appreciates the generosity of the Ralph K. Morris Foundation, which provided travel scholarships for several students and hosted the Louis Doering Keynote Luncheon, featuring remarks from cooperative communicator Sylandi Brown.