In response to growing interest and to ensure that all eligible students have the opportunity to apply, the deadline for the 2025 Appalachian Youth Leadership Summit (AYLS) has been extended to April 18, 2025.

The four-day summit, taking place June 10–13 at Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee, brings together high school juniors and seniors from across Appalachia to explore leadership, community engagement, and career pathways.

“We want to make sure every student who wants to apply has the chance to do so,” said Zachary Nicholas, Family Engagement Facilitator for PRI’s Gear Up Promise Zone. “Extending the deadline helps ensure broader access while meeting the growing enthusiasm we’re seeing across the region.”

Interested students can apply for AYLS 1.0 (first-time attendees) or AYLS 2.0 (returning participants who attended in 2024 and wish to serve as mentors).

Application Details

• Application period: March 7 – April 18, 2025
• AYLS 1.0 application: Apply Here
• AYLS 2.0 application: Apply Here
• Who should apply? Current high school sophomores and juniors (students who will be juniors or seniors during the 2025–26 school year)

For more information, contact Rian Johnson at rian.johnson@partnersrural.org or visit our blog for videos and more details: www.partnersrural.org/ayls