Sparta Rotary sponsors 4 WCHS students for 2025 RYLA Leadership event

Four White County High School students recently had the opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills thanks to the support of the Sparta Rotary International 6780 Club.

The Rotary Club sponsored Tori Mabe, Solomon Hawkins, Elijah Sparkman, and Adam Shaw to attend the Fall RYLA event at Camp Nakanawa in Crossville. RYLA, which stands for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, brings together student leaders from across the region for a day focused on growth, teamwork, and service.

“This event gives youth the opportunity to come together with other outstanding student leaders for a day dedicated to building leadership skills, strengthening teamwork, and finding inspiration," White County High School Principal Greg Wilson said.

The students were selected to represent Sparta Rotary at the event, where they participated in sessions designed to develop their abilities in leadership, citizenship, and personal responsibility. The goal of RYLA is not only to build individual confidence, but also to encourage students to use their talents to positively impact their schools and communities.

“Each student was given the opportunity to increase their skills in the areas of leadership, citizenship, and personal growth as it relates to making our community a better place,” Wilson said. “WCHS is proud of the representation that each of these students achieved at the 2025 RYLA event.”

Rotary International 6780’s support of White County High School extends well beyond RYLA. The Rotary Club of Sparta also sponsors the school’s Interact Club, a student-led service organization that remains active throughout the academic year. Under the guidance of club sponsor Allison Boston, Interact members participate in a variety of service projects, including attending the Tennessee state conference and organizing the school’s Angel Tree Project, which provides Christmas gifts to underprivileged children in the community.

Wilson said the continued partnership and mentorship provided by Sparta's Rotary Club plays an important role in creating leadership opportunities for students at WCHS.

“Sparta Rotary’s sponsorship and guidance is very much appreciated by WCHS.”