New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives

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🇺🇸 Thank You, Youth Tour 2026 Delegates!

Last week, New Mexico's Youth Tour delegates embarked on an unforgettable journey to Washington, D.C., representing their local electric cooperatives and communities from across the state.

Throughout the week, students explored our nation's monuments and memorials, met with elected officials, toured the U.S. Capitol, visited world-renowned museums, participated in leadership and advocacy activities, and connected with fellow students from across the country.

We are incredibly proud of the professionalism, curiosity, leadership, and enthusiasm our delegates demonstrated during every step of the experience. From learning about our nation's history to gaining a deeper understanding of the cooperative difference and civic engagement, these students represented New Mexico exceptionally well.

Thank you to our delegates, electric cooperatives, chaperones, families, and supporters who helped make Youth Tour 2026 a tremendous success. Students returned home Saturday with new friendships, new perspectives, and memories that will last a lifetime.

📸 Want to relive the journey?

View hundreds of photos from Youth Tour 2026 and follow the delegates' experience through Washington, D.C. at:

https://nmelectric.coop/youth-tour-2026

Thank you again to the outstanding students who made this year's Youth Tour such a memorable experience. We can't wait to see what the future holds for each of you.

Day 5 of the 2026 Youth Tour offered New Mexico delegates opportunities for reflection, exploration, and connection.

Students began the day with visits to Lafayette Square and the White House before touring the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, where they learned about the consequences of intolerance, the importance of civic responsibility, and the enduring value of protecting freedom and human dignity.

In the afternoon, delegates explored the Smithsonian museums along the National Mall, diving into topics ranging from American history and culture to science, innovation, aviation, and art.

The day concluded with the NRECA Cooperative Connections Fair, where students met Youth Tour delegates from electric cooperatives across the nation. Through games, activities, and conversation, they shared experiences, exchanged state pins, and built friendships that extend far beyond New Mexico.

From history lessons to leadership development, Day 5 reminded students that understanding the past and connecting with others helps shape the leaders of tomorrow.

A Day We Won't Forget 🇺🇸

Today was one of the most impactful experiences of the NRECA Youth Tour.

Our group visited several of our nation's most significant landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery.

One of the highlights of the day was witnessing the precision and respect shown during the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and participating in a wreath-laying ceremony honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

These moments remind us that leadership begins with service, responsibility, and appreciation for those who came before us.

We're grateful for the opportunity to learn, reflect, and represent our communities here in Washington, D.C.

📸🇺🇸 Relive the 2026 New Mexico Youth Tour!

From historic monuments and memorials to Capitol Hill meetings, leadership training, and unforgettable moments with new friends, our delegates have been making memories and gaining experiences that will last a lifetime.

We've created a photo gallery featuring highlights from their journey through Washington, D.C. Be sure to check back as additional photos may be added throughout the week.

View the full gallery here:
https://nmelectric.coop/youth-tour-2026

Congratulations to all of our delegates for representing their communities and electric cooperatives so well!

🎉 Congratulations to Kaylee Summers of Roosevelt County Electric Cooperative!

Kaylee has been selected as New Mexico's 2026 Youth Leadership Council (YLC) Delegate and will represent our state at the national level through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association's Youth Leadership Council program.

As New Mexico's YLC representative, Kaylee will spend the next year participating in leadership development opportunities, engaging with cooperative leaders from across the country, and serving as an ambassador for electric cooperatives and the Youth Tour program.

This prestigious honor recognizes Kaylee's leadership potential, dedication, and commitment to making a difference in her community.

Congratulations, Kaylee! We look forward to seeing all you accomplish as you represent New Mexico and Roosevelt County Electric Cooperative on the national stage.

🏛️🇺🇸 Day 3 of the 2026 New Mexico Youth Tour brought government, leadership, and civic engagement to life.

The day began with advocacy training, where delegates learned how to effectively communicate with elected officials, share their perspectives, and better understand the role citizens play in our democratic process.

Students then headed to Capitol Hill, where they had the opportunity to meet with Senator Ben Ray Luján and were scheduled to meet with members of New Mexico's congressional delegation. These conversations gave delegates valuable insight into public service and how decisions made in Washington, D.C., affect communities back home.

Delegates also toured the U.S. Capitol, walking through the historic halls where laws are debated and passed. Seeing our nation's government in action helped bring classroom lessons about citizenship, leadership, and public service to life.

The day continued with the People's House Experience and concluded with an evening cruise on the Potomac River, where students connected with fellow Youth Tour delegates from across the country while taking in the sights of our nation's capital.

From advocacy training and Capitol Hill meetings to unforgettable experiences with new friends, Day 3 was another memorable chapter in the Youth Tour journey.