Future Leaders Complete Rotary Sponsored Leadership Program

Future leaders from across Middle and West Tennessee gathered on the campus of Austin Peay State University from June 10–14 to participate in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) program, sponsored by Rotary District 6760.  The Lawrenceburg Rotary Club sponsored Olivia McDaniel, Annaliese Kephart, Addison Armbruster, Tristan Pigg, and Easton Goolsby for this year’s session.  Rotarian Stacie Odeneal introduced Olivia and Annaliese at Lawrenceburg Rotary’s Friday, July 18, 2025 meeting.

RYLA is an intensive, five-day leadership experience organized by Rotary clubs to build the next generation of leaders. Selected high school juniors and seniors are awarded attendance scholarships by their local Rotary Clubs in recognition of their leadership potential, academic achievement, and commitment to service. This year, 67 students completed the program under the guidance of a dedicated 17-member staff.

Known as “RYLAtarians,” participants engaged in a full schedule of development activities including individual assessments, communication exercises, team service project planning, and group presentations. They also participated in a challenging high ropes course to build trust, collaboration, and confidence. Throughout the week, students worked on goal-setting strategies to help shape their future leadership paths.

The RYLA experience is designed to encourage students to take initiative, build strong peer connections, and understand the importance of ethical leadership and community service. Participants leave with a deeper understanding of themselves, their strengths, and their potential to impact the world around them.

Rotary District 6760 and participating clubs remain committed to empowering young people through leadership development and service opportunities. The Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” is at the heart of the RYLA experience.

Photo Captions: Lawrenceburg RYLAtarians Olivia McDaniel and Annaliese Kephart with Rotarian Stacie Odeneal.