Great Smoky Mountains National Park is looking for mentors and sponsors for a new program beginning this summer at its Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.

Ten special students who will graduate from high school in 2016 will be chosen to be a part of the Youth Leadership Class of 2016. Beginning this summer, these students will participate in a series of educational expeditions and opportunities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that will culminate with the National Park Service centennial in 2016. Tremont is working with schools and youth organizations to publicize the program and identify the students.

“The program was inspired by National Park Service Director, Jonathan Jarvis, in his recent Call to Action identifying ways to recognize and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016,” said Ken Voorhis, Tremont’s executive director. “The goal is to recruit a diverse group of students who are willing to commit to involvement with the program over the next four years, and who have a particular interest in and potential for becoming tomorrow’s conservation leaders.”

The students selected will commit to one week each summer for an active outdoor learning expedition within the national park, and also be willing to attend additional outings and education opportunities at other times throughout the four-year timeframe.

... read the rest of the story by Subscribing now.