Local Junior Miranda Butler Selected to Attend National Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.
PRESS RELEASE
Stanford, Kentucky- Lincoln County High School is proud to announce that junior Miranda Butler has been selected to attend the 2026 Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) hosted by the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP), the national association for GEAR UP.
The 2026 Youth Leadership Summit will bring together 150 students from across the country in Washington, D.C. from July 19-22, 2026. This prestigious three-and-a-half-day experience is held in conjunction with NCCEP’s national conference and provides students with an opportunity to develop advanced leadership skills while connecting with peers nationwide.
Throughout the summit, students will participate in intensive workshops focused on public speaking, critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership development. Participants will work in teams alongside program staff and professional trainers to explore issues they are passionate about and develop meaningful solutions. The experience culminates in a live, student-led presentation delivered to more than 1,800 national conference attendees.
“I am so excited for this opportunity as I look forward to becoming a lawyer,” said Miranda. “I truly believe this experience will give me the tools to expand my network for future success.”
“Every student we have ever sent to this summit has described it as life-changing,” said Lindsey Baldwin, Program Manager with GEAR UP Promise Zone. Rebekah Renner, LCHS GEAR UP Promise Zone College and Career Navigator, added, “We are incredibly proud of Miranda for stepping into this opportunity. This experience will not only strengthen her leadership and communication skills, but also build confidence and expand her network at a national level.”
Selection for the Youth Leadership Summit is competitive. Students must demonstrate strong leadership potential, a willingness to engage in public speaking, and the ability to collaborate effectively during long, high-energy days of programming. All travel, lodging, and meals for selected students and one adult chaperone are fully covered through GEAR UP Promise Zone funding.
As a rising senior, Miranda will represent Lincoln County High School and GEAR UP Promise Zone on the national stage, showcasing the talent, dedication, and leadership emerging from our community.
For more information about GEAR UP Promise Zone and student opportunities, please contact Rebekah Renner at rebekah.renner@lincoln.kyschools.us or 606-365-9111 ext. 6001.
