Olson Represents Montana Agriculture During All-States Leadership Summit

Roosevelt County native Kaylee Olson was one of four Montana students who attended the National Farmers Union’s 87th annual All-States Leadership Summit held in Washington, D.C.

The Froid High School graduate, who is entering her second year at Miles Community College, said she learned about the opportunity from her friend, Lauren Prevost of Lambert. The summit aims to improve the young adults’ advocacy and communication skills so they can work for the future of American agriculture and family farming.

Olson said it was a great experience for her and opened her eyes to the importance of such programs.

“Next year, I will spread the word and get more people involved,” she said.

She explained that she appreciates Montana Farmers Union’s role as being a big advocate of agriculture and providing such opportunities for students.

Olson, who is majoring in ranch management and natural resources, said the experience included many workshops which taught leadership and personal skills such as resume building and public speaking.

The students had the chance to tour Capitol Hill and saw where Senate agriculture hearings were conducted. They went to the office of U.S. Rep. Troy Downing and visited with his staff members.

She said one of her favorite experiences was having a mock policy debate in the Senate’s agriculture room.

“You kind of felt like you were the people in the real debates,” Olson said.

The students also were informed regarding updates to the Farm Bill.

Olson also enjoyed seeing the National Mall to see famous monuments and memorials.

Spending time at a Farmers Market, which featured about 200 vendors, was also a good experience for her. She said it was interesting to talk with vendors and hear their different views of agriculture.

Olson hopes that other young adults, between the ages of 18 and 23, consider the expense-paid experience in the future.

“It’s a great opportunity for them, and I want to get the word out,” Olson said.

Registration for the 2026 All-States Leadership Summit will open in February 2026. For more information on this year’s All-States, visit the NFU website at www.nfu. org/allstates.