By: Emily Staton

Three students have been named 2024 Youth Tour delegates on behalf of Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative. These students will represent the River Valley in Washington D.C. through an all-expenses-paid prestigious opportunity, running from June 15-21, 2024, which is not only a trip of a lifetime, but also a significant step towards nurturing the next generation of informed and engaged leaders.

Tegan Stimac, Greenwood High School

I can't wait to meet other people from across Arkansas and our nation who are ambitious and share similar goals with me.  

Drayke Boen, Lamar High School

I am excited to expand my knowledge of the U.S. government and to see Arkansas' representatives at the Capitol building.

Katherine Wright, Johnson County Westside High School

I look forward to seeing the art and history preserved in the museums in Washington, D.C.

Each student has earned a $500 scholarship from AVECC, with the potential to secure a further $5,000 scholarship from the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas (AECC).

 The Youth Tour is a leadership and educational program designed to connect students with their communities and local electric cooperatives, highlighting the vital role cooperatives play in rural development. During their time in the nation's capital, Tegan, Drayke, and Katherine will have the unique opportunity to meet with Arkansas' congressional delegation, offering insight into the workings of federal governance. The trip also includes visiting many historic and cultural sites, including Mount Vernon, the Smithsonian Museums, Arlington National Cemetery, the Lincoln Memorial, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the U.S. Capitol. These experiences are intended to deepen their understanding of American history and enrich their perspectives as young leaders.

As representatives of AVECC, Tegan, Drayke, and Katherine embody the aspirations of the Youth Tour: to inspire and prepare the next generation of rural leaders. Their journey to Washington, D.C., promises to be an educational adventure and a stepping stone toward realizing their capabilities and the impact they can make.