Loyalist College was pleased to host Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) this week, a residential leadership and teambuilding workshop conducted by District 7070 for individuals selected and sponsored by Rotary clubs within the district. Participants were selected based on their proven abilities or potential to contribute in their individual ways within their communities. The program provides an opportunity for the participants to get to know themselves better and to cultivate the respect and trust of others. They are guided in identifying their own leadership skills and discover ways to use these resources more effectively. They are able to return to their sponsoring communities as positive youth leaders.
Amy Belbin has just completed her B.A. at Carleton University and will be attending Algonquin College this fall to study Material and Operations Management. She was one of the RYLA participants this year and was sponsored by the Port Perry Rotary Club. “I came here hoping to gain a better understanding of myself and to take back leadership skills that I will be able to use in all aspects of my life. It’s really great being here at Loyalist. The campus is so nicely laid out and it’s easy to find my way around. My favourite part of the week has been the presentation and communications sessions. The facilitator has been very good. I would definitely recommend the RYLA program to others.”
“It is a great privilege to work with young people who have accomplished so much and yet have so much more to offer,” said Ric Williams, one of the RYLA organizers. “While Rotary helps to expand their horizons, everyone benefits as these young leaders come into their own, and contribute in a meaningful way to fellowship and citizenship in the larger community. Our young participants have learned so much in both the classroom and in extra-curricular activities on this beautiful campus. It couldn’t be better.”
“A person cannot help but feel positive each year when this group of talented, bright and interesting young people arrives on campus,” said Geoffrey Cudmore, Associate Vice-President Academic at Loyalist College. “Just realizing that they have chosen to be RYLA participants because they sincerely want to grow and become better citizens is exciting. These are our future leaders. I find that very reassuring and admire their quest for personal growth. It is individuals like these who continue to make community service part of their daily lives and are active members of organizations members such as Rotaract at Loyalist. The College is very proud to host such an excellent program.”
For information regarding the Loyalist College Rotaract, contact Geoffrey Cudmore, at (613) 969-1913, ext. 2604.
Media Contact: Marilyn Warren, Communications, Loyalist College, (613) 969-1913 ext. 2332; e-mail: mwarren@loyalistc.on.ca or Geoffrey Cudmore, (613) 969-1913, ext. 2604