The Pennsylvania Rural-Urban Leadership Program, RULE, is a program of Penn State Extension, in the College of Agricultural Sciences. The program scope is interdependent, and inclusive of both rural and urban issues.
- Conflict: Challenge/Change/Grow
Embracing difference, mindfulness, empathy, power bases, and discomfort. “At the intersection of difference, the likelihood of learning, creativity & innovation is highest.” (Dr. Ted Alter 10/21)
- Communication & Group Process
A framework for persuasive public speaking, active listening, critical self-reflection, peer evaluations, coaching and group growth. “A result of orchestrated skills building is the enhancement of self-confidence, which increases capacity for organizational and community impact.” (JD)
- State, National & Global Leadership
Cultural understanding, intersections of leadership learning and goal development in programs like RULE across the nation and globally. RULE is one of 52 programs in the International Association of Programs for Agricultural Leadership (IAPAL) and we expect to connect you to other programs and International Leadership Alumni Conference (ILAC).
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Building a culture for awareness of race, region, gender, age, disability, and military service to be inclusive of differences in occupational as well as socioeconomics. “We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.” (Penn State University Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion)
- Leadership & Critical Thinking
Goal driven process of active analysis, enabling objectives and leadership theories. You will develop an Individual Leadership Contract and a Personal Leadership Philosophy. RULE will lead you on a journey of personal accountability.
- Agriculture, Sustainability; Community and Economic Development
Perspectives on community and economic development, environmental stewardship, and agriculture’s critical role in the Commonwealth’s economy, cultural heritage, and sustainable development.
