Subject: Muskogee Rotary RYLA

TOMORROW’S LEADERS
TRAINED BY ROTARY TODAY

Muskogee, OK. Six Muskogee area high school students, identified as leaders by peers and teachers, were selected to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) camp held at Salvation Army Heart O’ the Hills near Tahlequah, April 22 – April 25. The six were among some 150 young people whom Rotary clubs sponsor each year.

RYLA is a Rotary leadership training program for young people who have proven leadership skills and potential. Students who attend are funded by the local Rotary club. During the retreat, students from across a four state area engage in a broad set of leadership training skills that are offered at a pace that keeps the work stimulating and varied. Professional instructors who are experts in their field along with Rotarians and former RYLA participants provide educational sessions and activities, support and counseling as well as serve as chaperones.

Capitalizing on the wide set of skills and expertise of the retreat teachers and leaders, students learn and practice new leadership skills, lessons in
trust, and team building exercises. From a solemn US flag retirement ceremony to a funfilled night of games and a talent show, the focus is on learning and growing as a leader within a team.

One of this year’s students said she had attended many camps but had never experienced anything that was as much fun and as challenging as RYLA. All the students were encouraged, and expressed a desire, to go back to camp next year as counselors in training.

Individuals in the photo are (left to right)

Back Row: - Renee Fredrick & Sue Floyd (Rotarians), Matt Rust and
James Tolbert (MHS students) Penny Kampf (Rotarian)

Front Row: - Addison McGowen, Bailey McClellan, Lauren Rosson (MHS students)
Not pictured is: Sarah-Lyn Smith - Oktaha High School