Three outstanding local students spent a week representing Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative in Washington, D.C., during the 2025 Youth Tour.

Ruby Johnston (Black River), Gabby Bright (Black River) and Abriella Schnell (Keystone) joined more than 2,000 high school students from across the country for an immersive, weeklong experience in Washington. This event, held from June 15 to 21, provided a valuable learning opportunity, during which the students were able to engage in discussions about governance, leadership, and public service while gaining firsthand knowledge of the democratic process.

Youth Tour is sponsored by electric cooperatives nationwide and is designed to educate and inspire the next generation of citizens. Students are selected based on leadership potential, academic achievement, and demonstrated interest in community development.

During their time in Washington, D.C., students visited historic museums, attended a theatrical performance, and took part in a river boat cruise, where they connected with students from across the nation. They also engaged in thoughtful discussion on government, American history, and the significant role electric cooperatives have played — and continue to play — in shaping rural communities.

Additionally, Johnston was selected by her peers to represent Ohio on the 2025 Youth Leadership Council. Along with completing a community service project here at home and traveling back to D.C. with representatives from other electric cooperatives across the nation, she will attend the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s PowerXchange Conference in Nashville this coming March. Congratulations, Ruby!