The Dubuque Area Youth Leadership Council was established in 1990 as the tri-state chapter of the National Council on Youth Leadership. DAYLC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose vision is to make tomorrow’s world better by developing leaders today. We believe that investments of time, energy and resources in our local youth will pay enormous dividends in the future.
Local schools participating in DAYLC include:
- Beckman Catholic High School
- Dubuque Online School
- Dubuque Hempstead High School
- Dubuque Senior High School
- East Dubuque High School
- Galena High School
- Southwestern High School
- Wahlert Catholic High School
- Western Dubuque High School
Each year participating high schools nominate junior students who best exemplify the qualities of leadership. These students excel academically and are involved in multiple activities. Once nominated, students apply for consideration as a DAYLC Youth Leader.
University of Dubuque Character and Leadership Workshop
The top DAYLC Youth Leaders are invited to attend a leadership workshop sponsored by the University of Dubuque. The workshop provides an excellent opportunity for each individual to evaluate and develop their communication skills, leadership styles, self-esteem, and team-building skills. It also prepares participants for future leadership roles.
Panel Discussion
Hosted by Loras College, the top youth leaders gather to meet strong professional leaders in the Dubuque area. They engage in an interactive conversation by asking local leaders questions about their educational background, career path, community involvement, and how they got where they are today.
Awards Ceremony
The top youth leaders’ photos are included in a multimedia presentation to honor the students at an assembly for students, parents, and guests at the University of Dubuque. Their photos are also included in a photo display exhibited on our website.
Scholarships
In addition to the Youth Salute and the Leadership workshop, each Youth Leader is considered for a scholarship. These scholarships range from $100 to $1,000.
Town Meeting on Tomorrow
Each October the National Council on Youth Leadership hosts a leadership conference for youth leaders from across the country. The conference is called the Town Meeting on Tomorrow (TMOT) and has been held since 1985. Over the course of four days, students are engaged in dialogue with each other and adult leaders from a variety of fields. The goal is to provide youth leaders with new and different perspectives on leadership issues that they will face in the world of tomorrow.
Taking the time to acknowledge and encourage the accomplishments of our youth-tomorrow’s leaders-will inspire and shape their future, which will in turn shape the future of our community and our nation.
If your school is interested in participating in DAYLC, please contact us.