Thirteen Years of Learning From Young Leaders at HOBY Maryland

Just wrapped up my 13th HOBY Maryland leadership seminar this weekend!

Four days of leadership development activities, conversations, and growth with 200+ high school sophomores.

I had the opportunity to facilitate my favorite personality activity with Legos again this year and it never gets old watching participants turn self-awareness into something they can actually see, build, and talk about.

Their creations are always fun. But what stands out most is how quickly they start connecting the activity back to how they communicate, make decisions, and interact with other people.

I also really enjoyed speaking with students about entrepreneurship, engineering, and leadership during the professional development sessions. Their curiosity, energy, and sense of possibility were inspiring. Some of them are already building businesses, leading in their communities, and thinking seriously about the kind of impact they want to have!

A huge thank you to Zainab Mirza and her team for planning and executing an outstanding seminar. Her leadership was felt in so many ways throughout the weekend and it showed in the experience created for both participants and volunteers.

Also, a big shoutout to Adrianne Westbrook, on receiving the 2026 HOBY Maryland Volunteer of the Year Award (named after Carol Applegate for her legacy of service) for her long-standing commitment and service to the Operations team. So well deserved!

Grateful for another year with HOBY Maryland and for the reminder that leadership development can have an impact long before someone has a title.