SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – State Representative Dan Ahlers (D-Dell Rapids) has been selected to participate in the Emerging Leaders Program, an annual seminar sponsored by the State Legislative Leaders Foundation (SLLF) and the University of Virginia Darden School of Business.

Rep. Ahlers will join 44 other legislators from 42 other state who were selected to participate in the Program.

“It’s an honor to be selected to the Emerging Leaders Program,” said Rep. Ahlers. “I am humbled by the opportunity to be South Dakota’s representative at this prestigious event, where I can both learn about important national issues and trends in state government and share with others South Dakota’s values and vision of leadership.”

Legislators were selected to participate in the Program based upon criteria including the candidate’s long-term commitment to public service and keen interest in self-development, as well as a demonstration of the skills and aptitude to attain positions of greater political responsibility.

According to SLLF, the key objective of the program is to develop the leadership potential of emerging political leaders for the challenges of the 21st century. This will be accomplished through a highly interactive program that focuses on:

• Analysis and feedback on elements of personal leadership style.
• Awareness of the importance of values and ethics in governance and public service.
• Gaining perspective on the importance of the role of the state legislature in contemporary American politics.
• Recognition of the importance of legislators as consensus builders and facilitators of compromise.

Rep. Ahlers represents District 25 in the South Dakota Legislature, which includes parts of Minnehaha County.