The Northeast Center maintains an Advisory Council which is composed of six members, each with different experience and expertise, and each from a different part of the region. The Advisory Council serves several important roles. Through their breadth of experience, the members provide guidance in determining regional risk management education priorities for the annual Request for Applications (RFA). They share their insight with respect to educational needs in the northeast, keeping in mind the diversity of agriculture as well as the diversity of demographic and Special Emphasis groups. In addition, they are asked to suggest strategies that will enhance collaboration among educators, farm organizations, and risk management service providers within the region. The Advisory Council also serves as the panel that evaluates grant Applications submitted to the Northeast Center through the annual Extension Risk Management Education Competitive Grants Program.