Student Chosen To Participate

In HOBY World Leadership Congress

Newtown High School sophomore Greg Gordon was recently chosen to attend the 2004 HOBY World Leadership Congress in Washington, D.C., this summer following his outstanding participation in the three-day Hugh O’ Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) seminar.

Greg shared his experience with Newtown Rotary members during the Rotary’s latest meeting.

Describing the seminar as “outstanding,” Greg said the experience allowed him the opportunity to challenge and be challenged by his fellow attendees.

“We had the privilege of hearing well-qualified panelists speak on issues [ranging] from violence in sports to organ donation,” Greg said. “I was particularly fascinated by a panel discussing the [Bush administration’s] No Child Left Behind Act.”

In all, he said, the seminar was a very energetic, vigorous, insightful, and fun weekend and was fantastic in its attempt to bring tomorrow’s leaders together.

Rotarian Ed Osterman said that “all of Newtown should be proud” that Greg was one of the two students chosen to participate in the World Leadership Conference.

Speakers at past HOBY World Leadership Congresses have included Secretary of State Colin Powell, President and CEO of Microsoft, Inc, Bill Gates. This year’s host and keynote speaker is First Lady Laura Bush. After a White House tour, students will receive a special presentation on world leadership by Secretary General of the United Nations Kofi Annan

Newtown Rotary sponsored Greg to attend the state HOBY seminar and is partially funding his involvement in the World Leadership Conference. Although Newtown Rotary is the main sponsor, additional support is required. Anyone wishing to contribute toward supporting Greg in this program is encouraged to contact Brian Amey at 426-6605.