The Smoky Mountain Youth Leadership (SMYL) program is a transformative initiative designed to identify, train, and nurture the next generation of leaders in Sevier County, Tennessee. This comprehensive program offers high school students an interactive environment to develop their communication, decision-making, and leadership skills, empowering them to become responsible and ethical community advocates.
What is the Smoky Mountain Youth Leadership Program?
The Smoky Mountain Youth Leadership (SMYL) program is a leadership development initiative that targets high school students in Sevier County, Tennessee. The program aims to cultivate the leadership potential of these young individuals, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective and impactful leaders in their communities.
Eligibility and Requirements
To participate in the SMYL program, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be a sophomore or junior in a Sevier County high school (public, private, or homeschool)
- Actively involved in extracurricular school or community activities
- Able to commit to full participation in the program
- Demonstrate a desire to develop and utilize leadership skills
- Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and have a good disciplinary record
Program Structure and Objectives
The SMYL program consists of eight interactive sessions, along with an Introductions Night and a graduation ceremony. Participants are expected to attend all sessions, and written permission from their high school counselor is required to leave during a session.
The key objectives of the SMYL program include:
- Identifying, training, and nurturing potential leaders among high school students
- Enhancing communication, decision-making, and leadership skills
- Encouraging initiative, creativity, and responsible participation in the community
- Promoting leadership development in high schools through student interaction
- Increasing awareness of community needs, opportunities, and resources
- Inspiring ethical and committed leaders who are dedicated to active community involvement
Leadership Development Approach
The SMYL program provides an interactive environment where participants can develop their leadership skills through various activities, discussions, and problem-solving exercises. The program encourages committed involvement and responsible participation in the community, fostering a sense of mutual trust and respect among participants.
Curriculum and Activities
The SMYL program’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics and activities designed to enhance the participants’ leadership skills. Some of the key components of the program include:
- Interactive sessions and workshops
- Discussions with community leaders and experts
- Problem-solving exercises and case studies
- Team-building activities and group projects
- Volunteer opportunities and community service initiatives
Leadership Sevier and the Executive Director
The SMYL program is part of the larger Leadership Sevier organization, a non-profit that offers three specialized leadership training programs: Leadership Sevier for established community leaders, Leadership Tomorrow for emerging leaders, and Smoky Mountain Youth Leadership for high school students.
Ellen Wilhoit serves as the Executive Director of Leadership Sevier, overseeing the three leadership programs, including SMYL. With her extensive experience in leadership and community development, Wilhoit plays a crucial role in shaping the direction and impact of the SMYL program.
Conclusion
The Smoky Mountain Youth Leadership (SMYL) program is a transformative initiative that empowers high school students in Sevier County, Tennessee, to develop their leadership potential. By providing an interactive and engaging environment, the program equips participants with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experiences to become ethical and committed leaders in their communities. Through the SMYL program, the next generation of Smoky Mountain leaders is being cultivated, poised to make a lasting impact on the region.