Rotary Club of Dubois County Accepting Applications for 2026 RYLA Leadership Conference

The conference will take place October 30 – November 1, 2026, at Bradford Woods, Indiana University's outdoor education center near Martinsville. Students interested in participating should email [email protected] by September 1 to request an application.

Hosted by Rotary District 6580, RYLA is an immersive leadership development program designed to help students discover their strengths, build confidence, strengthen communication and teamwork skills, and explore how they can positively influence the people and communities around them.

This year's theme, "Create a Lasting Impact," will encourage participants to reflect on how their leadership, service, and everyday actions can make a meaningful difference. Throughout the three-day, two-night experience, students will participate in outdoor challenges, leadership workshops, team-building activities, and a hands-on service project while connecting with fellow student leaders and Rotary mentors from across southern Indiana.

"RYLA is an experience that challenges students to step outside their comfort zones while discovering the kind of leaders they are capable of becoming," said Deidra Church, Youth Services Chair for the Rotary Club of Dubois County. "Students return home with greater confidence, lifelong friendships, and a renewed commitment to serving others. It's one of the most rewarding opportunities our club is able to provide to local youth."

RYLA scholarships are made possible through the generosity of Rotary Clubs throughout District 6580, ensuring there is no cost for participating students. The Rotary Club of Dubois County encourages students who are involved in school, athletics, clubs, volunteerism, or who simply have a desire to grow as leaders to apply. Previous leadership experience is not required.