We're proud to announce the selection of four high school juniors from our service territory to represent La Plata Electric (LPEA) at the 2026 National Rural Electric Cooperative Association's (NRECA) Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., June 15–21, 2026. These students were chosen for their leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to their communities, and they will join a delegation of students from across Colorado.
Penelope Cartwright, of Bayfield and a junior at Animas High School, serves as Student Council President and school ambassador. A performer, project manager, and community advocate, she is eager to connect with peers nationwide. “I am so excited about this opportunity to not only talk to Representatives, but also engage with other students from around the country,” she shared.
Julian Reeves, of Durango and a junior at Animas High School, is deeply engaged in politics, writing, and civic discourse. Having spoken before large community audiences, he looks forward to expanding his understanding of government through this experience. “To me, the Youth Tour is an exploration of both our past and our future, as they are inexorably connected. It helps prepare the next generation to better understand the world we live in,” Julian said.
Lucia Rivera, of Pagosa Springs and a junior at San Juan Mountain School, is a dedicated student-athlete and emerging environmental leader. A three-year member of her swim team and regional qualifier in cross country, she has earned varsity letters and received the Wolf Award for leadership. Lucia plans to pursue environmental studies with a focus on hydraulic science to help protect rivers and lakes.
Bennett Esterday, of Durango and Student Body President at Animas High School, brings together leadership, environmental research, and a strong commitment to civic engagement. In addition to leading the student government, he has conducted award-winning plant science research, participated in statewide youth leadership programs, and performs as a violinist with the San Juan Symphony Youth Orchestra. “I am excited by the opportunities presented by the LPEA Youth Tour. Traveling to the nation's capital and talking to legislators about issues that matter to me is definitely a highlight of this experience,” Bennett said.
Youth Tour is a national leadership program sponsored by electric cooperatives across the country. Each year, more than 1,800 students from approximately 45 states travel to Washington, D.C., where they meet with members of Congress, tour historic landmarks, and learn how federal policy decisions affect their local communities and electric cooperatives. Delegates also connect with peers from other states, gaining a deeper understanding of civic engagement, public service, and the cooperative business model.
LPEA participates in Youth Tour as part of its ongoing commitment to education, community investment, and developing future leaders. As a member-owned cooperative, we believe it is important for students to understand how cooperatives operate, how energy policy shapes our region, and how they can play a role in strengthening their communities.
Our 2026 Youth Tour delegates will be recognized at the LPEA Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. in the LPEA truck barn in Bodo Park, Durango. Members are encouraged to attend to meet these outstanding students and celebrate their achievements. More information is available at lpea.coop/annual-meeting.