The 2021-2022 RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) winners were announced on Wednesday, Jan 12 as Hillary Crist and Wesley Wilt. The Rotary Club met with junior candidates who were nominated by the high school counselors.

“It is very exciting to get the opportunity to go the RYLA Camp,” said Crist. “I can’t wait to see what RYLA has in store for me.”

The RYLA program is a key element of Rotary’s program and is designed to equip young people to become effective future leaders. Applicants are recommended by their high school counselors, teachers, and principals on the basis of service performed, leadership ability, academic performance and citizenship. Sandoval and Campbell will be able to attend the RYLA Leadership Camp along with other students who were chosen from surrounding schools across East Texas.

“Earning the Rotary Youth Leadership Award has been a huge honor for me,” said Wilt. “Not only because it is a prestigious organization, but also it shows me that all my hard work and dedication have been worth it. I hope that attending RYLA will teach me how to be a leader and give me opportunities to help better my community.”

Wilt and Crist will attend the camp in Athens Friday, Feb. 4th through Monday, Feb. 7th.