Rotary Youth Leadership Academy

Madison James-Kessler, RYLA recipient

Madison James-Kessler, a sophomore at Jackson High School, has been selected by the Rotary Club of Southeast Missouri Service as the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy recipient. The Rotary Club pays the $500 scholarship for the student to attend "RYLA" the four day/3 night Academy at University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg MO. This is a Rotary Sponsored event and the students from all over the State of Missouri learn leadership, community, and decision making. The curriculum is designed to identify and enhance the qualities of servant leadership for each participant, educate them on how to successfully implement a service project, and inspire them to live a lifetime of "Service Above Self." In addition, participants are introduced to the programs and values Rotary has to offer. Established in 1992, Missouri RYLA Academy has educated and inspired more than 2,400 students statewide. It is currently recognized as a model program for Rotary International, worldwide.