Senior Shaun Huss and sophomore Joshua Huss are both involved in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, a leadership conference that brings students from across Wisconsin together to develop leadership skills through activities and team-building experiences. 

“RYLA is a three-day conference where you grow in leadership through fun games and activities,” said Shaun Huss. 

The conference takes place October 2-4 at Camp Manito-wish at YMCA camp in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin. 

While Joshua attended RYLA during his freshman year, Shaun has participated in the program for four years. 

Attending as a participant his first year, Shaun returned as a facilitator for the following years. 

“It has been a great experience. We played many different games and leadership activities, faced our fears, and got out of our comfort zones,” said Huss. 

However, Huss explained that part of the RYLA tradition is keeping some activities a surprise for future participants. 

“One part of RYLA is not to reveal what you specifically did so as not to spoil the experience for anyone attending,” he explained. 

To qualify for RYLA, a student must complete an application and interview process. 

Joshua explained that he qualified by answering questions through a Google form and being selected for sponsorship.

Both brothers emphasized the impact the program has had on them and expressed gratitude toward those involved in making the experience possible. 

When asked whom he wanted to thank, Shaun replied, “Everyone who trusted me when I told them to go to RYLA.” 

Joshua added, “I want to thank everyone at RYLA for putting on an amazing opportunity for people.” 

Through their participation in RYLA, the Huss brothers continue to strengthen their leadership skills while representing NDA among students from across the state.