Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative Sponsors Local Students on a Trip to the Nation’s Capital
Maria Limones and Karlee Whipple, students from Western Plains and Ingalls high schools, recently represented Lane-Scott Electric at the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., held from June 13-19. During their time in Washington, D.C., students deepened their understanding of America’s electric cooperatives and developed their leadership skills while connecting with peers from across the cooperative network.
This year, the Eastern Maine Electric Cooperative joined with the Kansas-Hawaii delegation. These 32 standout student representatives, 27 from Kansas, four from Hawaii, and one from Maine, were selected by each of their representing cooperatives.
The Youth Tour kicked off in Topeka with a speech from Trooper Ben, a welcome from other notable Youth Tour Alumni, and dinner, followed by an exclusive night tour of the Kansas State Capitol. The tour was led by Senator Brenda Dietrich and Representative Tobias Schlingensiepen, along with Peter Barstad, director of policy in the Kansas House Majority Leader Chris Croft's office. After returning to the hotel, students had the opportunity to get to know each other better with icebreaker activities.
In Washington, D.C., students explored iconic landmarks including the U.S. Capitol, Arlington National Cemetery, and The People’s House — A White House Experience, along with numerous monuments and memorials. Visits to the Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Smithsonian museums offered powerful insights into history and culture.
On June 18, during the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) National Youth Day, students were inspired by a dynamic lineup of speakers, including NRECA CEO Jim Matheson, NRECA President Mike Partin, Paralympic Gold Medalist Mike Schlappi, and Brynn Lee Hirata, the 2026 National Youth Leadership Council Spokesperson. This year’s NRECA Youth Tour brought together around 2,100 delegates and chaperones across 44 states to Washington, D.C. This attendance represents a record of almost 700 cooperatives, bringing attendance back to pre-pandemic levels.
Students had the unique opportunity to meet with U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall. Additionally, delegates met with Chief of Staff Krisann Pearce, from Congressman Derek Schmidt's office; Legislative Assistant Rylee Rosamond, and intern Hayden Napierala (a 2023 Youth Tour alumna) from Congressman Tracey Mann’s office; and intern Cappi Hoeting (a 2022 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp alumna) from Senator Moran’s office. During these discussions, they asked thoughtful questions on a range of topics that mattered to them, gaining firsthand insight into the legislative process and the role of elected officials.
Beyond the educational experiences, students enjoyed unique opportunities to bond with peers from across the country — trading pins with other state delegations and taking in the sights during a scenic dinner cruise on the Potomac River.
“The thing that has impacted me the most on this trip is getting to explore the places around Washington, D.C.” Limones said. “I have loved making so many new friends from different states and getting to know our Kansas senators. Having the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and hear their experiences made this trip even more meaningful and memorable. I also enjoyed visiting the Abraham Lincoln Memorial because standing in a place with so much history gave me a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped our country. I feel that certain places are truly special, and now that I have experienced them in person, those memories will always hold a special place in my heart. This trip has allowed me to learn, grow and create experiences that I know I will remember for many years to come.”
Students who participated in the 2026 Youth Tour are also eligible to apply for the NRECA Glenn English Scholarship. For more information about the Youth Tour or other youth programs, please contact Ann Marie Jennings at 620-397-5327.