This fall outstanding middle school students from across the United States took part in an extraordinary leadership conference in Washington, D.C. themed “The Legacy of American Leadership.”

“The aim of the Junior National Young Leaders Conference is to inspire students to recognize their own leadership skills, measure their skills against those of current and former leaders and return home with new found confidence in their ability to exercise positive influence within their communities,” said Mike Lasday, executive director of the Congressional Youth Leadership Council, the organization that sponsors JrNYLC.

During the six-day program local resident Clay Chapman, 11, took part in educational activities and presentations, as well as met with elected officials and key Congressional staff members on Capitol Hill.

Students also visited historical sites, monuments and memorials.

In addition to examining notable U.S. leaders and historic figures, students studied the impact of leadership throughout critical periods of American history including the Civil War and Reconstruction, World War II, the Great Depression and the Civil Rights Movement to gain a greater understanding of the role of individuals in American democracy, as well as the responsibilities of being a leader.

Said Chapman, “This trip helped me to be more confident in my communication skills. I learned so much about leadership skills that will help me at school and in serving my community.”