Alexandra, (Jen) Chanthaseng, 2023 RYLA Conference attendeeRYLA REBOOT REPORT
Following a two-year COVID hiatus, clubs in Rotary District 6650 welcomed the RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) reboot on February 24, 2023. The program identifies young students who have demonstrated leadership skills or show the potential to be leaders. Held in Canfield, Ohio the 27th annual conference was attended by OHS junior Alexandra (Jen) Chanthaseng for a weekend with 88 other outstanding students representing 36 different Rotary clubs. Selected by OHS staff, RYLA attendees participated in interactive programs geared toward communication, behavior styles, society and learning about Rotary. Conference interactive sessions to identify those skills with others with similar capabilities. During the busy weekend, students explored their own leadership style and strengths; learned skills to enable them to be aware of and able to address community needs; interact with adult role models in their professions and communities; and develop an appreciation for community service. At today's meeting, Jen, president of OHS Junior Advisory Board, leader of the OHS band, and member of National Honors Society, shared her RYLA experience with club members. Noting that the most important thing that Jen learned by attending RYLA was "If I go into a situation with a positive attitude that I can have fun with anything." When asked what was the most important thing Jen learned about others, she replied that "Not all leaders are going to be out there and outgoing." Orrville Rotarians are proud of Jen for taking the leap of faith outside of her comfort zone by accepting, attending and embracing the RYLA conference experience to develop and enhance her future leadership skills. Guests attending the meeting in support of Jen included OHS Principal Tim Adams and OHS junior class advisor, Rebecca Dickerhoof.