What is RYLA?

RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) is a global youth leadership program that encourages “Service Above Self” and teaches “leadership through service” — focusing on improving Teamwork, Leadership, and Connections (TLC).

RYLA is also one of largest and most fun, interactive, and successful student leadership training programs in the world!

Mini-RYLA is a 1/2 or full day event, similar to that of the RYLA Camp, but we take the leadership program to the school(s), community, and Rotary Clubs — during a school day — and is perfect for Jr. High / High School school students.

FUN LeaderShops

Indoor TEAM Building

SOCIAL Activities/Bonding.

• AWANA Sparks Ministry (Teacher): 3 years teaching as well as sharing my faith to diverse K-2nd Graders, in our O’Fallon, IL, Victory Church.
• Board of Education (BOE Member): 10-year elected public official who helped govern Lebanon, IL, CUSD #9 — focusing on student needs.
• Board of Education (President): served 2 years leading a dynamic team of community volunteers — in and past the COVID pandemic.
• Boy Scouts of America (Cubmaster): served 3 years leading the pack with fun scouting activities and programs as well as teaching practical skills.
• Leadership Development (Director): spent 2+ years  designing/teaching a college leadership program for campus leaders — on leadership skills, habits, mindsets, and more. 
• Professor (Education/Psychology): 26+ years teaching diverse courses (Applied, College Success Strategies, Educational, Lifespan Development, and more) in the field of Psychology.
• Rotary Lebanon Club (President): 1-year term leading a dedicated team of community volunteers — and putting our motto "Service Above Self" into daily action.
• Rotary Youth Leadership (Chair): reigniting and redesigning RYLA leadership program in Southern Illinois (Jr. High and High School), focused on “The FUN-damentals of Leadership“ and teamwork.