Local Scholars to Take Part in Envision’s National Youth Leadership Forum: Pathways to STEM

[June 01, 2018] 

LINCOLN 

Three students from Chester-East Lincoln School, Abbie Arnold, Elaina Jones, and Arianna Morris, will join outstanding elementary school students from across the nation this July in Chicago to take part in a unique academic development experience called the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF): Pathways to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

NYLF: Pathways to STEM is one of the Envision family of programs that enable students to explore their interests and experience learning beyond the classroom. Having just finished the sixth grade, Abbie, Elaina, and Arianna will spend six days this summer learning more about the STEM disciplines through exciting hands-on activities and educational workshops.

All three girls were nominated by one of their teachers, Mrs. Heather Ramey, because of their enthusiasm for learning, diligence with their studies, strong leadership potential, and motivation to succeed. They very much look forward to attending the forum this summer in order to work their minds and expand their knowledge. They are also excited to meet new friends and work with others who share their same love for learning.

“NYFL: Pathways to STEM is a great opportunity for high-achieving scholars to get outside the classroom and see, through hands-on interactive learning, how to innovate and think creatively,” said Andrew Potter, the Chief Academic Officer for Envision. “These students, who have already proven themselves academically, are challenged to work on real-world, student-created projects to bring their studies and career interests to life.”

Elaina Jones, Arianna Morris, and Abbie Arnold

With this extraordinary experience also comes a significant cost, so Abbie, Elaina, and Arianna are hoping to raise money for their tuition by seeking donations from the community. Additionally, it is their hope to raise enough money so that a scholarship fund can be established by which future students from the Lincoln area can utilize funds for participating in future forums.

Anyone interested in helping to financially support this cause can donate to an account that has been set up at a local bank. Payments can be directed to CEFCU, c/o STEM Leadership Conference, 341 Fifth Street, Lincoln, Illinois 62656.

Another option for interested donors is to visit the “Go Fund Me” page that has been set up online by visiting GoFundMe.com and searching “National Youth Leadership Tara Morris” and clicking “Donate Now.” These girls, as well as potential conference attendees of the future, greatly appreciate the generosity of their community members as they consider helping to invest in such an exciting educational endeavor.

Since 1985, Envision programs have served more than 800,000 students in more than 145 countries, with programs designed to help students develop the leadership, scholarship, and career skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive college and career landscape.

[Carolyn Arnold]