For one unforgettable week, 34 of America's brightest high school students came together in Washington, D.C., to immerse themselves in leadership, history, civic engagement, and the Second Amendment through experiences unlike any other.
The 2026 NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.) welcomed students from across the country for a week of in-depth learning, meaningful discussions, hands-on experiences, and friendships that will last a lifetime. Throughout the week, students challenged themselves to think critically, engage respectfully with different viewpoints, and discover what it means to become informed leaders in their communities.
Bringing together students from across the United States, the week began with new faces, fresh perspectives, and the excitement of the journey ahead. Through interactive icebreakers, small group discussions, and current events conversations, participants quickly discovered they shared a passion for leadership, service, and learning.
From the very first evening, students were encouraged to ask questions, exchange ideas, and begin preparing for one of the week's signature experiences: the Y.E.S. debates.
A visit to NRA Headquarters gave students an inside look at the organization's mission and the many career paths that support it.
One of the highlights of the day was networking with NRA leadership and staff during a series of roundtable discussions. Students had the opportunity to ask candid questions, learn about professional experiences, and receive valuable career advice from experts representing a variety of fields. They also had the privilege of meeting NRA Executive Vice President & CEO Doug Hamlin, who shared his personal leadership journey, offered insights into the future of the Association, and participated in an engaging question-and-answer session.
Students toured the National Firearms Museum, participated in range activities emphasizing firearms safety and responsible handling, and took part in a mock Friends of NRA fundraising event where they learned how volunteers across the country help fund youth shooting sports, conservation, education, law enforcement, and safety programs.
Washington, D.C. became the classroom as students explored the institutions that shape our nation.
The group visited the U.S. Capitol, observed the House floor, and met with Congressman John McGuire of Virginia to discuss public service and civic responsibility. They also explored the National Archives, where America's founding documents are preserved, and visited both the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Natural History.
Through these experiences, students connected classroom lessons with real-world government, history, and citizenship.
“My favorite part of the trip was learning the importance of the phrase, ‘When you fall down, get back up,’ which Congressman John McGuire shared with us. I learned that setbacks are a part of life, but what matters is how you respond. I’m excited to carry that lesson with me as I continue growing into adulthood.” Katherine H., Oregon
One of the defining moments of the week took place at Hillsdale College's Washington DC campus, where students participated in formal debates after months of preparation and research.
Before taking the podium, students heard from Dr. Matthew Spalding, Vice President for Washington Operations and Dean of the Van Andel Graduate School of Government, who discussed the importance of constitutional principles, civic education, and informed leadership.
Working in teams, participants demonstrated poise, critical thinking, public speaking, and respectful discourse while presenting and defending their positions before a panel of judges.
Whether students arrived with debate experience or stepped behind the podium for the first time, every participant grew in confidence and communication skills.
Throughout the week, students explored many of the landmarks that tell America's story.
Highlights included visits to:
- Arlington National Cemetery and the Wreath Laying Ceremony
- The Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima)
- George Washington's Mount Vernon
- Ford's Theatre and the Petersen House
- The National Law Enforcement Museum
- National Museum of American History
- National Museum of Natural History
- Washington's iconic memorials under the evening lights
- National Museum of the United States Army
- Marine Barracks Washington 8th and I Parade
Each stop reinforced the sacrifices, leadership, and ideals that have shaped our nation.
“My favorite part of the week was being able to lay in the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was such an honorable moment to pay tribute to the Unknown Soldiers and to recognize everyone who has served our country. That experience truly inspired something in me, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity.”- Jacqueline W., Washington
“Not only do we get to experience so much U.S. history, like visiting the Lincoln Memorial and other iconic landmarks, but the Natural History Museum added another perspective by connecting our history as Americans with the larger story of evolution and humankind. That was one of my favorite parts of the trip.” -Emma J., Texas
While the educational experiences were unforgettable, some of the most meaningful moments happened between the scheduled events.
Students built friendships over shared meals, small group discussions, evening debriefs, museum visits, and conversations that continued long after the day's activities ended.
By week's end, what began as a group of strangers had become a community of future leaders connected by shared experiences and a commitment to making a difference.
The week concluded with the annual YES Awards Dinner, celebrating the accomplishments, growth, and leadership demonstrated throughout the program.
The End-of-Week Scholarships recognized students who exemplified excellence in leadership, scholarship, teamwork, public speaking, and engagement during the summit.
Olivia Kate C. from Virginia- $5,000
Ann Marie D. from Ohio - $4,000
Mark D. from Colorado - $3,000
John-Paul P. from California- $3,000
Emma S. from Rhode Island - $3,000
As students reflected on all they experienced, one thing became clear: the NRA Youth Education Summit is far more than a week-long event. It is the beginning of lifelong friendships, continued leadership, and a deeper appreciation for the freedoms and responsibilities of American citizenship.
While several students were recognized with scholarships during the Awards Dinner, every participant leaves the NRA Youth Education Summit with the opportunity to earn the program's prestigious Grand Scholarship.
Over the next 10 months, the students are challenged to put what they learned into action by volunteering with or launching NRA programs in their own communities. Whether organizing educational events, supporting local Friends of NRA committees, promoting firearm safety, or engaging in other community initiatives, participants continue building on the leadership skills developed during the summit.
This grassroots service component is one of the defining aspects of the NRA Youth Education Summit. Rather than ending when the week concludes, the program empowers students to return home as ambassadors for leadership, civic engagement, and responsible advocacy, extending the impact of YES far beyond their time in Washington, D.C.
Think you have what it takes to be part of the next NRA Youth Education Summit?
Applications for the 2027 NRA Youth Education Summit open in Fall 2026.
Current high school sophomores and juniors are encouraged to apply so they can attend the program while entering their junior or senior year of high school.
If you're passionate about leadership, history, civic engagement, and making a positive impact in your community, Y.E.S. could be the opportunity that shapes your future.
Learn more and apply this fall at: YES.NRA.org
