FAQ – Leadership
At Its Best
What is the purpose of the Leadership At Its Best Program
The LAIB program is a community outreach initiative sponsored by Syngenta, without any sales obligations or quid pro quo expected. The motivation is to contribute to the agricultural industry and partner organizations, helping to strengthen the next generation of leaders and ensure a stronger network of voices advocating for farmers in local, state, and national legislation.
Why does Syngenta support the Leadership At Its Best Program
The LAIB program is offered to safeguard access to technology, science-based regulation, freedom to operate, and opportunities for growers to share their sustainability stories. Through this program, we aim to establish a more robust network amplifying the voice of farmers in legislative matters. It is important to note that this initiative is not a sales tactic; rather, it is specifically designed to provide leadership skills, foster fellowship, and promote collaboration within the agricultural industry. We firmly believe in the power of unity and collaboration, recognizing that together, we are stronger and better equipped to address the challenges and opportunities in our industry.
Can I bring a friend or spouse to the Leadership At Its Best Program?
As part of the program, we offer each nominee airfare and single room accomodations during the event. Your time during the event will be dedicated to learning and networking with this years cohort of LAIB Leaders.
If you would like to bring a friend to stay in your room, that is acceptable, but guests will not be included in meals, events, or tours offered as part of the LAIB program.
We suggest requested extended dates on your airfare before or after and spending some time exploring DC with your friend/partner/spouse joining you during that time.
To do this, you can adjust your airfare arrival or departure dates in the registration form. Please note that accomodations are only covered the Sunday through the Saturday the week of the program.
Will I have time to explore DC on my own?
We do try to work in personal time to explore D.C., however due to scheduling requirements, time to expore D.C. is not guaranteed.
Am I expected to use Syngenta products?
There is no expectation that you use Syngenta products before or after being a part of this program.
What should I bring?
The dress during most of the week is business casual and professional attire during the lobbying visit to Capitol Hill. We recommend a pair of comfortable shoes for walking during tours. Other than that, please bring personal items you normally bring on a work trip.
Can I book my own airfare and accommodations?
To ensure a smooth experience for the entire cohort, Leadership At Its Best will handle all of the complimentary travel arrangements. Please note that there won’t be any reimbursement or stipend provided for travel or accommodations.
What is covered?
The program covers round-trip airfare to and from Washington, DC (you may choose your departure airport), accommodations from Sunday through Saturday, meals, and all scheduled program activities.
You will receive a $125 Visa card to cover incidental expenses, such as Uber or Lyft transportation to and from the airport in Washington, DC, and luggage fees.
Please note that no additional reimbursements will be provided beyond the $125 Visa card.
What is not included?
Each participant is responsible to get to their departure airport, parking at your departure airport, any personally arranged tours, personal items, tips, outings, souvenirs, any other non-program expenses/meals and unexpected changes/adjustments to your travel plans.
When is the deadline to respond?
Please respond by September.
What are the expectations of each nominee?
As taking part of this program, LAIB participants are expected to dedicate this week to learning, networking, and participate fully in the program. You will be asked to provide a headshot and a personal bio prior to the event, instructions on how to submit these materials will be provided after accepting your nomination.
What is Business Casual Attire?
Business casual is a polished, professional dress code that is a step down from a formal suit. It typically includes tailored trousers, button-downs or blouses, sweaters, and closed-toed shoes, allowing for a comfortable yet respectable look.
Bottoms
- Trousers: Tailored slacks, khakis, or chinos.
- Skirts: Modest cuts that hit at or just above the knee (A-line or pencil skirts).
- Jeans: Black, khaki, or other dark colored jeans are accepptable.
Tops & Layers
- Collared Shirts: Button-downs, crisp polo shirts, organizational “logo” shirts, or standard collared shirts.
- Blouses: blouses are acceptable
- Layers: Sweaters, cardigans, and blazers.
Footwear & Accessories
- Shoes: Closed-toed shoes are a staple. Safe options include loafers, Oxfords, ballet flats, and ankle boots.
- Walking shoes: on days when a lot of walking is required, we recommend walking comfortable walking shoes. On the trip to the hill, you should pair with coordinating business suit.
What to Avoid
- Athletic Wear: Gym sneakers, yoga pants, sweatpants, or hoodies.
- Revealing Clothing: Crop tops, plunging V-necks, and short hemlines.
- Beach & Casual Wear: Flip-flops, sandals, and distressed or torn clothing.
What is Professional/Business Attire?
- Men: A well-tailored suit and tie, usually in neutral colors, paired with a pressed button-down shirt.
- Women: A suit (pants or skirt), a structured blazer with slacks or a knee-length skirt, and professional closed-toe footwear.
Do you have any photos from past events?
Yes, we love sharing photos from our past events!
2023 LAIB Cohort Photos
2024 LAIB Cohort Photos
2025 LAIB Cohort Photos
2026 LAIB Cohort Photos