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20 Years of Student Leadership- BVYLA Celebrates Its 20th Annual Culmination
- jgonzalez549
- May 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 30
This spring, the Blackstone Valley Youth Leadership Academy (BVYLA) marks a significant milestone: 20 years of fostering student leadership across the Valley.
Launched in 2004 by the Blackstone Valley Education Foundation, BVYLA was built on a simple yet powerful idea. When students receive tools, guidance, and opportunities, they can lead meaningful change in their communities.
“Nicholas A. Cordts applied for admission to the program because, he said, "I wanted to pursue something that involved leadership and public speaking. I'm interested in business and entrepreneurship." Nicholas initiated a project to clear brush and perform maintenance work at Children's Haven, a camp in Douglas for inner-city children. He reached out to the camp's director, Ann E. Roon, to serve as his mentor. Ms. Roon expressed initial skepticism when she first received Nicholas's call. However, her impression changed. "As someone who works with teens, I was impressed with his ability to rally 30 teens for five hours. It saved us thousands of dollars," she stated. "The academy clearly excels at teaching leadership. Projects such as this hold great significance for a nonprofit.
- Worcester Telegram & Gazette, May 27, 2010
Since its inception, BVYLA has expanded into a premier program serving 7th to 10th-grade students across 15 districts. With over 400 alumni, these young leaders have carried their skills into schools, workplaces, and public service roles.
A Unique Opportunity
On May 17, 2025, we will celebrate the 20th Annual BVYLA Culmination. This event will showcase this year's student cohort as they present their team projects. They will also reflect on the personal growth they’ve experienced through months of workshops, site visits, and community engagement.
“Before I became a part of this organization, I had never run a project on my own or led a group of people. This experience allowed me to take the initiative in conducting a project.”
- Abigail Colombo, BVYLA Graduate, 2014
Leadership in Action
Every BVYLA student engages in a yearlong experience designed to build confidence, communication skills, and civic awareness. This program focuses on defining personal leadership styles and developing real-world community projects. It offers students opportunities to grow and lead according to their unique strengths.
“I learned that it is important to undertake many projects and remain dedicated. This experience taught me that, as a leader, I must juggle different responsibilities to maintain my leadership role. Mr. Gaudette managed many tasks while leading a business. I plan to apply this knowledge in high school, enhancing my college applications.”
- Lily, Grade 9, BVYLA Student, 2025
Join Us in Celebration
We warmly invite educators, families, community leaders, and alumni to join us for this year’s culmination event. Let's honor our students and acknowledge the partners who have supported their growth.
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: Great Hall @ Northbridge Town Hall
Open to the public. Light refreshments and snacks will be served.
The Impact of BVYLA
For two decades, BVYLA has made a significant impact on youth leadership in the Blackstone Valley. The program continues to evolve while maintaining its core mission: empowering students to become leaders within their communities.
In the past, we have seen how students transform during their time in the Academy. They not only learn to lead but also develop a sense of responsibility toward their peers and communities. This transformation echoes throughout their future endeavors.
Looking Forward
As we look forward to the next 20 years, we remain committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Our alumni serve as excellent examples, demonstrating the values instilled through BVYLA. They continue to make strides in various sectors, inspiring the next wave of young leaders.
Here’s to 20 years of student-led change and the bright future ahead for BVYLA. Learn more at: www.bveducationfoundation.org/bvyla-1
