Rian Johnson
Associate Director Content Development & LFA and Intern Supervisor, C2C Partnerships
High school juniors and seniors entering the 2025-26 school year: Are you ready to develop your leadership skills, collaborate with peers, and take on real-world challenges? The Appalachian Youth Leadership Summit (AYLS) is back!
From June 10-13, 2025, students will gather at Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, TN for a four-day leadership retreat designed to build skills, foster community engagement, and expand career readiness.
Why Apply?
- Develop leadership skills through interactive workshops.
- Engage in hands-on community service that makes a real impact.
- Learn from keynote speakers who are shaping the Appalachian region.
- Collaborate with peers to tackle real-world challenges and present solutions.
- Network with mentors and professionals who will help guide your leadership journey.
Hear from Past Participants
"AYLS helped me learn so much about myself—things I hadn’t realized before, like my learning style and new ways to see the world. It really made me think about life from different perspectives."
When & Where?
How to Apply:
Dates: June 10-13, 2025
Location: Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN
Students will stay in LMU’s residential housing, enjoy meals at the LMU Dining Hall, and participate in field trips and service projects throughout the region.
Application Deadline: April 4, 2025
First-Time Applicants: Apply Here
Returning Students (Mentors): Apply Here
The 2nd Annual Appalachian Youth Leadership Summit: Applications Now Open!
High school juniors and seniors entering the 2025-26 school year: Are you ready to develop your leadership skills, collaborate with peers, and take on real-world
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