LI Students Participate in the 2026 Rotary Youth Speech Contest

Lyndon Institute students recently participated in the first round of the 2026 Rotary Youth Speech Contest, an annual competition that invites high school students to reflect thoughtfully on issues of leadership and civic responsibility. This year’s theme, “How Can We Be Instruments of Peace?”, challenged students to consider practical and personal ways to foster peace within their school, community, and daily lives.

Open to students in grades 9–12, the contest begins at the local Rotary Club level - Lyndonville Rotary Club for LI participants. Seven LI students delivered five-minute speeches connecting the theme to their own experiences and to Rotary’s core values. First-place winner Ryleigh Lefebvre will advance to the second round of the competition, which will be hosted by the Newport Rotary Club in March.

By encouraging students to participate in programs such as the Rotary Speech Contest, LI promotes meaningful dialogue on important topics like peace while also helping students strengthen essential public speaking and leadership skills. Through their participation, these students demonstrated poise, critical thinking, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their community.