SDCEA Selects Students to Send to Washington, D.C.

Sangre de Cristo Electric Association (SDCEA) is thrilled to announce that 4 outstanding students — Jenna Shepherd, Aberlyn Leon, Tayler Propernick, and Jamie Nall — have been selected to attend the prestigious Washington D.C. Youth Tour this June.

This weeklong, all-expenses-paid trip offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore our nation’s capital, engage with history, learn about the federal government, and connect with peers from across Colorado and the United States. The Washington D.C. Youth Tour is a program sponsored by SDCEA and organized by the Colorado Rural Electric Association, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, and the Colorado Electric Educational Institute.

The participants submitted essays highlighting their motivation for joining the tour. 1 applicant shared, “I am eager to have meaningful conversations with peers who may be similar to me or who may have very different viewpoints about the world.” Another wrote, “My main motivation for wanting to go on this trip is to learn more about America’s history and how it has shaped our country into what it is today.” A third emphasized, “It will be more than what we learn in class and will allow me to have a better and more informed opinion as I become an adult with more political input.”

The tour begins in Denver and features a robust itinerary including a visit to the Colorado State Capitol and dinner with a state legislator. Once in Washington, D.C., the students will visit iconic landmarks such as the Martin Luther King, Jefferson, and FDR Memorials, the United States Capitol, see the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, visit the Holocaust Museum, Arlington National Cemetery, and more. These activities are designed to provide a well-rounded educational experience while fostering personal growth and connecting participants with the legacy of American history.

All expenses are paid for this trip, ensuring that students have everything they need to enjoy and immerse themselves in this unforgettable experience. Participants are only responsible for any personal purchases, such as souvenirs.

“We are committed to empowering youth and building informed future leaders through innovative initiatives like the Washington D.C. Youth Tour,” SDCEA CEO Gary Kelly said.

Want To Learn More?

If you are inspired by this opportunity, keep an eye out for information regarding the 2026 Washington D.C. Youth Tour. Applications will be available this fall.