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By Carey Reeder | Managing Editor

Three rising high school seniors from Isabella and Maplesville High Schools were selected to participate in inaugural Trojan Patriot Academy in partnership with Troy University. Kennedy Cleckley and Emma Merritt of Maplesville, and Rylee Hathcox of Isabella High School were among the group of rising seniors selected for the five-night camp on June 9-14 that “expose students to leadership practices and ideals through the lens of the Founding Fathers of the United States,” according to a press release from the program.

The program was formed after a partnership between the American Village Citizenship Trust and Troy University was struck that will offer high school seniors the opportunity to learn about leadership, civics and United States history.

“We are grateful for our partnership with the American Village Citizenship Trust, and we are excited about the difference the Trojan Patriot Academy will make in shaping the next generation of leaders in Alabama,” Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor of Troy University, said in the press release. “We believe our nation needs leaders now more than any point in its history. This weeklong academy will help to equip students with the practices and ideals that have made our country great.”

The three Chilton seniors spent the first two days of the academy on the campus of Troy, and information sessions were centered around servant leadership. The students continued the academy with a trip to Montgomery to meet state leaders, toured the Alabama State House and toured Troy University’s Rosa Parks Museum to learn about the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement.

“The Trojan Patriot Academy will serve as an outstanding opportunity for our youngest citizens and future leaders to examine the founding principles of the United States, and their own vital role in shaping our future,” Alan B. Miller, CEO of American Village, said in the press release.  “Understanding the challenges that confronted the founders of our nation will allow participants to more fully appreciate the importance and challenges of principled leadership.”

The three students concluded their experience at the American Village in Montevallo where they got a first-hand look at the leadership principles that shaped America.