While his classmates are attending their regular classes February 26 – March 3, King’s Fork High School senior, Fletcher Stephens, will be attending a National Youth Leadership Forum on national security in Washington, D.C. On February 27, Fletcher will attend a separate event in our Capitol sponsored by Virginia Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine.
This rare and prestigious opportunity did not just happen to fall into Stephens’ lap – he had to apply for it. He only heard about this forum recently when he read about a girl who participated in last year’s event.
Stephens is already a leader in his school, serving as president of the student council. He is also on the school’s swim team and has been on the school’s golf team in the past.
Stephens applied for this year’s forum because he hopes what he learns will help him achieve his career aspirations – to serve in the field of national security. Stephens’ father always encouraged him to pursue a life of service to others. What better way to serve others than to protect their life? surmised Fletcher.
Stephens said he will get an in-depth introduction to how the (nation) plans for peace and prepares for crises. The forum, subtitled “Exploring American Diplomacy, Intelligence and Defense,” will involve the exploration of some of our country’s most technologically advanced military facilities and policy centers, as well as historical sites and national monuments.
In a news release, Marguerite Regan, Dean of Academic Affairs for the forum organization, stated, The event will include specialized simulations…to put youth in the driver’s seat of building a strategy that will uphold our national security. The combination of interacting with professionals and with other students in this setting ensures that leaders are being developed so the future of our country will remain very bright.
Students will be required to think critically and use their public speaking skills while working with the “actual world events” curriculum. Students will engage civilian policy makers and senior military personnel in question-and-answer sessions. Based on previous forums, students may explore the Pentagon, the U.S. Department of State, and a variety of embassies.
Stephens is really excited about this opportunity. He stressed to other students who may be looking for an opportunity such as this, You really have to go for these opportunities.
Congratulations, Fletcher, for reaching yet another milestone in your life. Your years of hard work, attention to detail, dedication to making the most of your academic opportunities will bode well for your future. When I am older and you are serving in the field of national security, I know I will sleep better.
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