SV student shines at Junior National Young Leaders Conference

This July, seventh grader Vivian H. joined outstanding students from across the nation to take part in a unique academic and development experience, Junior National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, DC.

Vivian was nominated to attend the conference by a teacher at Haine Middle School (HMS). The nomination was based on Vivian’s academic achievements and demonstrated leadership potential. Vivian, who participated in HMS music programs and clubs, was also recognized as a sixth grade Student of the Year for 2024-25. An active member of Dutihl Methodist Church, Vivian has served in Food, Children’s and Hospitality ministries. She is an avid reader and international traveler and finds time for her love of dancing, acting, singing and performing in musicals.

“I was excited for Vivian to meet, work, and collaborate with fellow high-aspiring students from other cities and schools,” said Dr. Jan Sikorsky, vice president, Education for Envision. “Junior National Young Leaders Conference is a wonderful opportunity for ambitious young students to explore their interests outside the classroom and discover how to innovate and think creatively through hands-on immersive learning. Our students are challenged with real-world simulations and problems, working together to develop unique solutions and projects to bring life to their studies and career interests.”

Throughout the week, Vivian and her peers studied the characteristics, qualities and decisions of great American leaders. Based out of the University of Maryland, they traveled to Mount Vernon, Smithsonian Museums, toured the US Capital and sat on the House floor. The experience proved to be a tremendous growth opportunity in honing communication abilities, demonstrating emotional intelligence, demonstrating problem-solving skills and building confidence to take calculated risks.

During one of the leadership development modules, Vivian ran a campaign and won the Presidential race. She also earned an invitation to be one of fifteen student speakers on the final day, where she addressed 200 fellow students and staff members.

“The week was full of so many emotions for everyone! My group showed me that being a leader isn’t about winning others over, it’s about actually caring. I learned that, if you want to be successful, you should surround yourself with people that make you happy but also help you make good decisions. This camp showed me so much about myself,” said Vivian. “This was the best part of my summer. Thank you to Mrs. Ellie Lahm Schroeder for the nomination and for believing in me!”

For over 35 years, Envision by WorldStrides has empowered extraordinary students to become their best selves through programs that enable them to discover their passion, explore a career, and positively impact their world. In 2018, Envision became part of the WorldStrides family. The largest provider of educational travel and experiences in the United States, WorldStrides works with over 50,000 educators each year to help more than 550,000 students see the world—and themselves—in new ways.