Seven outstanding student-athletes from the North Carolina High School Athletic Association’s (NCHSAA) Student Athlete Advisory Committee (S.A.A.C) had the privilege of attending the National Student Leadership Summit (NSLS) in Indianapolis, Indiana. This event, organized by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), brought together young leaders from across the nation (32 States and 245 Student-Athletes) to cultivate their leadership skills and share their experiences.

The NCHSAA S.A.A.C team members who attended the summit were Briana St. Louis, Kyle Stinson, Lillian Cross, Marco Zamudio, Brij Bhatt, Olivia White, and Alice Neelon. These students engaged in a series of workshops, keynote presentations, and networking opportunities designed to enhance their abilities to lead and inspire their peers.

Reflecting on the experience, Kyle Stinson expressed the impact of the summit, saying, “Representing Section 3 of the NFHS on a national level is an honor, but there is nothing like being surrounded by student-athletes from NC and all of us growing closer together. The NSLS was put together well this year and I hope all states left with something. Looking forward to what’s to come!”

Brij Bhatt shared his enthusiasm about the summit, stating, “The NSLS was a blast. I look forward to applying the leadership skills and different perspectives I learned in Indiana to my community.”

Marco Zamudio highlighted the personal growth he experienced, noting, “The National Student Leadership Summit reinforced my values about being a leader for my peers by learning from the other student-athletes, NFHS Speakers, and workshop activities. I now know how to turn my dreams into reality and proudly represent my fellow student-athletes along the way! Thank you NCHSAA for the incredible opportunity.”

Olivia White was equally enthusiastic, saying, “I believe this summit left me with the greatest leadership skills and lifelong friends. I wouldn’t have traded this opportunity for anything else. It was truly an awesome experience, I know the next summit will be even more sensational!”

Lillian Cross reflected on the privilege of attending the summit, sharing, “Words can’t describe how much of a privilege it was to go on this trip. The people I met, values taught, and skills learned will stick with me for years to come. I was inspired by my teammates, speakers, advisors, and all of the student-athletes in attendance. Such a great opportunity for young athletes, can’t wait to apply what I learned within my life and community.”

Briana St. Louis expressed her gratitude for the experience, stating, “The NFHS leadership summit was an experience I will never forget. I am grateful for the friends I made and the fun that was had. The skills and knowledge I gained will not only guide me through high school and college, but give me a firm foundation to grow on.”

The NSLS serves as a platform for young athletes to develop their leadership capabilities, gain new perspectives, and build lasting connections with peers from various states. The NCHSAA is proud to support these remarkable students as they continue to grow as leaders both on and off the field.

For more information about the National Student Leadership Summit, please visit the NFHS NSLS webpage.