Congratulations to Summer Skelly of Murphysboro High School, Maddox Seaman of Carterville High School, and Peyton Rixmann of Pinckneyville Community High School for being selected as the bright young leaders to represent EECA this summer in Washington, D.C., for Youth Tour 2026!
Each year, Egyptian Electric Cooperative Association (EECA) sponsors at least two local high school students for Youth Tour, an all-expenses-paid, week-long leadership experience in Washington, D.C. This nationally recognized program offered through the Nation Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) gives students the opportunity to explore our nation’s capital, learn about the electric cooperative business model, meet elected officials, and connect with peers from across the country.
For more than 58 years, Youth Tour has brought more than 50,000 students to Washington, D.C. Each summer, approximately 1,500 students from across the country participate in this unforgettable experience. Students consistently describe Youth Tour as a life-changing opportunity that builds confidence, broadens perspectives, and strengthens leadership skills.
Eligibility
High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who attend a public or private school within the Egyptian Electric Cooperative service territory, or are otherwise a consumer-member of EECA, are eligible to apply. Eligible school districts include Marissa, Sparta, DuQuoin, Chester, Coulterville, Pinckneyville, Murphysboro, Elverado, Trico, Carbondale, Steeleville, Red Bud, and Carterville.
How to Apply
Applications for Youth Tour open each December, with the deadline to apply being the following March. Co-op 101 Day and the selection process for selecting the two students for Youth Tour follow shortly after. The application process requires students to submit an online application, which includes brief summaries of school and civic involvement, noteworthy achievements, and responses to three short essay questions related to cooperatives and our local community.
Co-op 101 Day at EECA Headquarters
All Youth Tour applicants will be invited to participate in Co-op 101 Day, held at EECA’s headquarters in March. This half-day event will give students the opportunity to learn how electric cooperatives work and serve their members, develop leadership and teamwork skills, and learn how to personally advocate for their communities
Following Co-op 101 Day, at least two students will be selected to represent Egyptian Electric Cooperative on Youth Tour to Washington, D.C.
Why Apply?
If you are a high school sophomore, junior, or senior seeking a meaningful leadership experience, we encourage you to apply. Participation in Youth Tour is an impressive addition to any college application or résumé. Help us inspire the next generation of local leaders by sharing this opportunity with a student who would thrive in this program.
All travel expenses are covered by Egyptian Electric Cooperative, and transportation is provided. For questions, contact Brooke Guthman at (618) 684-2143 ext. 1115 or bguthman@eeca.coop.