By Jessica Ridge | June 1, 2019

For every teen who has made the trip, there’s a moment that crystallizes its impact. Whether by exploring the cultural cornerstones of a big city, cementing a family tradition, confronting a dark chapter in history or flying for the first time, each of these alumni emerged from the trip with horizons broadened and dreams uncovered.

Blaine Skiles, 2011
A visit to the Newseum motivated Skiles to pursue a journalism career

Annette Calderon, 2017
Calderon, a freshman at Texas A&M University, plans to pursue a career in biomedical science

Deanna Duensing, 2018
Duensing is an Electra High School cheerleader and tutor in math, science and English

Jordan Cochran, 2018
Wreath-laying ceremony became a personally meaningful experience

By Travis Hill | June 1, 2018

Youth Tour may be the trip of a lifetime, but for many, it’s also a leap into the unknown. That was definitely the case for these alumni. Years removed from their trips, they still remember the initial butterflies that ultimately gave way to life-changing experiences.

Marlene Phillips, 1992
Meeting with legislator proves life-changing experience

Macie Thompson, 2006 
Tour fosters independence and commitment to community

Daniel Tilley, 2010 
Challenge of D.C. trip preparation for career ahead

By Chris Burrows | June 1, 2017

Celebrated teacher, deputy press secretary or doctor in training—these alumni all will tell you that nerves were hard to ignore leading up to the trip. New faces, new places and a bunch of weird accents took them out of their comfort zones. Years later, they’ll all tell you that the initial worry is worth the rewards.

Martha Saucedo, 1994
Alumna learns life lesson of perseverance

Brendan Mueller, 2006 
Trip inspires servant leadership in medical field

Stephanie Addison, 2010 
Tour fuels west Texas student’s “Potomac Fever”

By Chris Burrows | June 1, 2016

Whether it’s the relationships formed, government processes witnessed or stirring scenes beheld, the Government-in-Action Youth Tour impacts the lives of its travelers. From state politician to acclaimed children’s author to internationally renowned interior designer, alumni over the past five decades have cited the Youth Tour experience as a positive influence on their success.

Rep. Brooks Landgraf, 1998 
Witnessing government in action sparks will to serve

Nikki Loftin, 1989 
Children's book author fondly remembers Youth Tour

Bill Stubbs, 1969 
International designer credits Youth Tour for "paradigm shift"

By Sheryl Smith-Rodgers | June 1, 2015

Traveler, economist, photographer and philanthropist—some landed jobs through connections they made. Others discovered interests, such as art collecting and photography, that they enjoy to this day. No matter what year they traveled to Washington, D.C., over the 50 years of the Government-in-Action Youth Tour, all participants have a story to share about how the trip shaped their lives.

Annie McGinnis, 2011
Repeat alumna captures memories, hearts

Daniel Sanders, 2008
Youth Tour experience inspires co-op career

M. Ray Perryman, 1970
Economist cites Youth Tour as important milestone

Ethel (Mabry) Ellison, 1965
Tour widens world for teen on first trip