SRRHS Students Gear Up for Empowering Leadership Camps

Sedona Red Rock High School is proud to announce that juniors Glenna Barnes and Logan Jankowski will represent the school at the 78th annual American Legion Auxiliary Arizona Girls’ and Boys’ State Leadership Conference this summer. Additionally, sophomore Bruno Garcia has been selected to attend the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Camp.

The Arizona Girls’ State Conference is scheduled from June 1 to June 8 at the University of Arizona. Participants will engage in drafting laws for an imaginary country, providing hands-on experience with the democratic process. “The citizens are divided into two political parties — the Nationalist and Federalist — which are purely mythical,” a description from the American Legion explains. The goal is to foster understanding of governmental problems through the creation of their own controversial issues.

Barnes learned about this opportunity through her mother, a former Girls’ State attendee. Excited about continuing this family tradition, she views leadership as an ability to guide others while earning their respect. “I’d like to run for student class president or another leadership position,” she said, believing the experience will enhance her skills for a better school environment. Although undecided on her future career, she is considering media management or joining the family restaurant business.

Meanwhile, Jankowski will participate in the Boys’ State conference from June 1 to June 7. At this event, he and other students will assume fictitious citizenship in a 51st state, competing for various political offices. The program emphasizes experiential learning, with sessions covering law, civic duties, and more. Recreational activities, including athletics and a student-run newspaper, are part of the experience as well. Notably, two students will be selected to represent Arizona at the national conference.

Jankowski, who was nominated for his leadership potential, expressed enthusiasm for the experience. “Boys’ State is a lot like the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, but longer and more intensive,” he explained. He values the opportunity to demonstrate leadership by helping peers academically, and aspires to a career in urban planning. He hopes to influence city design, particularly to improve pedestrian safety, drawing from personal experiences of being involved in an accident while biking.

Bruno Garcia will attend the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar from June 5 to June 8 at Arizona State University’s West Valley Campus in Glendale. Nominated by his photography teacher, Cindy Wilmer, Garcia recognizes leadership as a means to build confidence and character. He emphasizes the importance of being a good role model.

Aspiring to be a construction manager, Garcia has a family connection to the industry through his father and grandfather, both hardworking immigrants. He acknowledges the leadership skills necessary for his future profession, stating the importance of guidance in construction management.