Approximately 1,800 high school students from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C., June 14–20 as delegates for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Tour.
Among them were two local Croatan High School students sponsored by Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative, Hayes Monson and Jackson Sulzen. Hayes is a rising senior and Jackson is a rising junior.
During the weeklong experience, the students learned more about electric cooperatives, leadership, and government while exploring the nation’s capital. Delegates visited historic monuments and museums, met with elected officials, and connected with students from across the United States.
CCEC’s Youth Tour delegates joined 50 other North Carolina students for leadership development activities and educational experiences designed to encourage civic engagement and prepare the next generation of community leaders.
“Youth Tour is an incredible opportunity for students to expand their horizons and gain firsthand experience with our nation’s history and government,” said Melissa Glenn, CCEC Communications Director. “We were proud to sponsor Hayes and Jackson and look forward to seeing how this experience impacts their future.”
Applications for the 2027 Youth Tour are available here. Youth Tour is funded by member contributions to Operation RoundUP.
To see highlights from the trip, visit @NCYouthTour and @NCREAYouthTourDC Facebook, X, and Instagram pages.