Every year, electric cooperatives invest in something even more powerful than electricity — the next generation of leaders.

This summer, four outstanding students represented Trinity Valley Electric Cooperative through the Government-in-Action Youth Tour and ETREYS, returning home with greater confidence, new friendships, stronger leadership skills, and memories that will last a lifetime.

A Journey Through Our Nation’s Capital

Representing TVEC at the 2026 Youth Tour were two Crandall High School students, junior Ogonna Umeh, and sophomore Victor Okonji-Nduka.

Their journey began in Austin, where they learned about Texas history before joining more than 1,500 students from electric cooperatives across the United States for a weeklong experience in Washington, D.C.

TVEC Public Relations Supervisor Laura Melton accompanied the students as a chaperone, helping guide them as they explored our nation’s history and connected with fellow cooperative students from across the country.

Throughout the week, students explored many of our nation’s most iconic landmarks, including:

  • The U.S. Capitol
  • Arlington National Cemetery
  • The Smithsonian museums
  • The Supreme Court
  • The Library of Congress
  • Washington National Cathedral
  • Historic memorials and monuments

They also visited congressional offices to learn firsthand about the legislative process and participated in Rural Electric Youth Day, where they connected with fellow students from across the country while celebrating the cooperative spirit.

“It is an incredible experience for our future leaders to walk the same streets where our Founding Fathers lived, worked, and shaped our nation,” Melton said, “Watching history come to life through every memorial, museum, and event gives students an appreciation that simply can’t be found in a textbook.”

For many students, Youth Tour is the first opportunity to experience our nation’s capital. Standing where history was made transforms classroom lessons into unforgettable moments and encourages students to think differently about leadership, public service, and the impact they can make in their own communities.

Growing Leaders at ETREYS

The learning didn’t stop in Washington.

Following Youth Tour, Ogonna and Victor joined two additional student leaders at the East Texas Rural Electric Youth Seminar held at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall.

Umeh and Okonjii-Nduka also attended ETREYS, along with Adan Ramirez, Ford High School, returning as a second-year Youth Director, and Joshua Johnson, Canton High School, selected as a Youth Director for 2027.

Established in 1988, ETREYS brings together approximately 130 students from 10 East Texas electric cooperatives for a week focused on leadership, teamwork, communication, and personal growth.

Students participated in leadership workshops, team-building activities, and peer discussions while hearing from inspiring speakers, including nationally recognized leadership expert Keith Davis. They also had the opportunity to meet Vincent “The Dancing Umpire,” known for entertaining crowds at Savannah Bananas games, whose message encouraged students to embrace authenticity, enthusiasm, and bringing joy to everything they do.

While ETREYS was filled with fun and engaging activities, its greatest impact came through the friendships and personal growth students experienced. Many arrived knowing only a few people but left with greater confidence, lifelong friendships, and stronger leadership skills.

One of the highlights came when Ogonna and Victor reunited in Washington, D.C., with many of the students they had first met at ETREYS, a reminder that the cooperative family reaches far beyond East Texas.

TVEC Public Relations Representative Kari Wilmeth and Director of Public Affairs Bobbi Byford served as ETREYS chaperones, supporting and encouraging students throughout the week as they learned, grew, and built lasting connections.

More Than a Trip

While Youth Tour and ETREYS offer unforgettable destinations and experiences, their greatest impact is the personal growth they inspire.

Through leadership challenges, teamwork, and new friendships, students discover strengths they may not have known they possessed. They return home with greater confidence, fresh perspectives, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Watching these young leaders grow is one of the most rewarding parts of these programs. The skills, relationships, and confidence they gain today will help shape the leaders of tomorrow.

Looking Ahead to 2027

TVEC is proud to invest in tomorrow’s leaders through Youth Tour and ETREYS each year.

Applications for the 2027 programs are expected to open in November 2026, with details shared through the TVEC website, social media, bill messaging, and member email updates.