This summer, Alfalfa Electric Cooperative sponsored an amazing learning experience for local students. Mya Deviney from Attica, Davin Budy from Cherokee, and Evan Ferguson from Alva, recently represented AEC at the 2024 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., held June 14-20.
Deviney was one of the 29 Kansas Youth Tour delegates who joined four delegates from Hawaii for Youth Tour. Budy and Ferguson traveled with 64 other Oklahoma student delegates.
During their time in Washington, D.C., students deepened their understanding of America’s electric cooperatives and enhanced their leadership abilities alongside peers from the electric cooperative community.
While in Washington, D.C., students explored iconic landmarks such as the U.S. Capitol, the White House, Arlington National Cemetery and Mount Vernon. They also visited the Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Smithsonian museums to enrich their appreciation of history and culture further. Students also enjoyed memorable experiences like trading pins with students from other states’ delegations and a scenic dinner cruise on the Potomac River.
“Seeing all of the amazing memorials and monuments, as well as hearing about our country’s history, had a big impact on me,” Deviney said.“
One thing that inspired me was the flag etiquette class. It was amazing to see how much pride the soldiers have for our country.”
During the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) National Youth Day on June 19, students were inspired by a lineup of motivational speakers, including Paralympic Gold Medalist Mike Schlappi, NRECA’s CEO Jim Matheson, representatives from the NRECA International Program, and 2024 National Youth Spokesperson Hayley Dorsey.
Students also engaged directly with government officials by meeting with United States senators and representatives. During these meetings, students had the opportunity to ask questions on a variety of topics that were important to them.
“Youth Tour has been one of the greatest opportunities I have received,” Ferguson said. “Being able to see some of our nation’s most historic sites is something that I will remember for the rest of my life.”
Budy agreed saying, “Youth Tour gave me an amazing opportunity to see many important parts of U.S. history and to really learn how the legislative process works on the national level. I am so grateful for this experience and will treasure it always!”
The Youth Tour experience affects the student delegates in many positive ways. Students return with a special appreciation for our country’s history. They learn about our government and interact with the people representing their state. More importantly, the students return to their communities as better leaders. AEC strives to take a positive role in developing the future leaders in Kansas, Oklahoma, and our nation.
Do you know a junior who would benefit from this experience? Applications are due in January; tell them to apply! More information can be found on our website under youth programs!