Youth and Government Wrap Up

The 2010 Maryland YMCA Youth and Government Session has officially come to a close and it was a wonderful conference! Most events of this size are not complete without some problems and stress but we hardly felt a bump in the road. The students this year were some of the best I've ever had the privilege to know. Their dedication to a job well done meant less for me to worry about and those pesky little problems just faded into the background far overshadowed by their leadership, success and accomplishment. This year, more than any I've ever attended, the students stepped out of their comfort zone to get to know students in other delegations. The Youth Governor and Youth Lt. Governor lead the way with their high energy and easy going attitudes.

The highlight of the trip for most of the participants was the Youth Lt. Governor's Banquet with Governor Martin O'Malley as the keynote speaker. Governor O'Malley also stayed to help hand out awards and take pictures with the students. Also in attendance at the banquet were CEO's, school principals, Y execs and many honored guests. We were privileged to have so much support!

As the summer approaches our students are preparing for CONA (Conference on National Affairs). Maryland will send its largest delegation in many, many years with 14 students and one advisor traveling to North Carolina for the national conference. I am so proud of our students and so thankful for our advisors. It was a great year!

Posted by Amy Maloy, State Director, MD Youth and Government, Y of Central Maryland