Four local students represent Farmers RECC on Washington Youth Tour

Staff Report

 

Four high school students sponsored by Farmers RECC joined more than 100 Kentucky students on the 2026 Washington Youth Tour, a weeklong leadership program that gave participants the opportunity to explore the nation’s capital, meet elected officials and learn about American history and government.

The local delegates were Corinne Keller and Jozie Allen of Metcalfe County High School, Jonathan Ash of Hart County High School and Sephora Velcine of Barren County High School.

The tour, coordinated by Kentucky Electric Cooperatives and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, included visits to historic sites such as Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and George Washington’s Mount Vernon before students traveled to Washington, D.C., to tour the U.S. Capitol, museums and national memorials.

For Keller, one of the week’s most memorable moments came at Arlington National Cemetery, where she joined fellow Kentucky delegates in laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier following the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

“Through meeting so many unique people, I gained so many friendships, amazing conversations, and long-lasting memories,” Keller said. “These connections caused my D.C. experience to be unforgettable.”

Allen said the trip deepened her appreciation for the nation’s history.

“Viewing all of the history of our country and nation this week has taught me just how amazing it is to be an American citizen,” Allen said. “I am so thankful for the honor to have participated in the Washington Youth Tour.”

Ash said one of the highlights was meeting fellow Future Farmers of America members from across Kentucky.

“The biggest way it has affected my experience is meeting FFA members from all over,” Ash said. “This will help me build connections that will last for a lifetime.”

Velcine said the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum left the greatest impression on her.

“It made me reflect on my life and how much I had to be thankful for,” she said.

During the trip, students also met with congressional staff members and U.S. Sen. Rand Paul to discuss issues including FEMA reform, the needs of Kentucky’s electric cooperatives and artificial intelligence.

Mallory Wafzig, manager of cooperative outreach for Kentucky Electric Cooperatives, said the program provides students with an opportunity to experience the nation’s democratic institutions firsthand while developing leadership skills.

The Washington Youth Tour is an annual leadership program sponsored by electric cooperatives across the country, providing high school students with educational experiences in the nation’s capital.