Sophomore selected to represent Sparta at leadership program

SPARTA — Krista Shugart, 16 has been selected to represent Sparta High School at the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Program. The all-expense-paid state seminar will be held on June 26 through June 28 at Monmouth University. According to Stan Abromavage, Director of Guidance at Sparta High School, Shugart was chosen to represent Sparta after her written application essay was selected. “Krista was chosen based on her demonstrated leadership ability, sensitivity, concern for others and a desire to learn and share knowledge and experience,” said Abromavage. Shugart’s accomplishments serving as vice president of the class of 2011, volunteering for Pass-It-Along activities, being an active member of the Big Brothers, Big Sisters Program, mentoring in the You’ve Got A Friend program, volunteering for SCARC bowling outings, and Girlpower, make her a qualified candidate. The Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Program was founded in 1958. The HOBY programs provide the students who were selected by their schools the opportunity to participate in unique leadership training, service-learning, and motivation building experiences. HOBY’s mission is to inspire and develop the global community of youth and other volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service and innovation. Their programs are conducted annually throughout the U.S, serving local and international high school students. HOBY will soon celebrate 50 years as the countries top youth leadership development organization. “The purpose of the program is to bring together a select group of sophomores with demonstrated leadership qualities,” said Stan Abromavage “Through intense, but informal panel discussions, the HOBY participants get a realistic look at their nation, it’s people and their role in the world community.” “I’m very excited to meet sophomores from different schools and make friends at this event. I’m also looking forward to learning from the speakers and broadening my leadership skills,” said Shugart. Upon completion of the HOBY state seminar, Shugart will receive a Certificate of Recognition and the opportunity to be selected to serve as an ambassador at the week long HOBY World Leadership Congress in July. “I’m looking forward to this experience,” said Shugart. “I’m planning to major in business in college and one day work with non-profit organizations.” Following the HOBY weekend participants are required to then take on a community service project requiring a minimum of 100 hours. Shugart who donated over 200 hours volunteering her time and effort knows exactly how she will satisfy that commitment. “I plan to volunteer my hours with Pass-It-Along,” said Shugart.