Students become international leaders

VICENZA, Italy -- Eight outstanding student leaders were selected to represent Vicenza Middle School at the 32nd Junior Leadership Seminar held in Oberwesel, Germany, from Oct. 16 through 21.

These exceptional students have demonstrated initiative in their school and community, and are on their way to becoming the next generation of leaders.

The Junior Leadership Seminar focuses on building the strengths and skills to prepare students to be leaders in an interdependent global community. The summit identifies and develops leadership skills with 150 students throughout Europe; the experience allows them to return to their schools and implement a service project in their community.

Two students received special accolades while attending the conference: Nijah Thaniel was selected as one of 10 Color Group Leaders for demonstrating hard work and strong leadership skills, and Emily Newland was selected as one of two 7th-grade Student Ambassadors. Newland was awarded an all-expense paid trip to return next year and help lead the seminar.

While special Junior Leadership Seminar attendees like Newland get to return to the European conference to help lead the next year's sessions, all attendees from Vicenza Middle School will be putting their leadership skills to the test by hosting a Mini-JLS for their peers here at their own school. Attendees included William Briggs, Chrisraine Gilpin, Carmella Neal, Dominic Randazzo, Jonas Ross, Nolan Smith, Londyn Wilson and alternates Rachel McCollaum and Nolan Smith.

Students will plan, organize and facilitate sessions and help foster leadership skills with their middle school peers. The Mini-JLS will take place in early May and includes an overnight Leadership Lock-In and a study trip to a ropes course in Asiago to build teamwork as well as leadership.

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