Esne Lien from New York Mills was among high school students who gathered in Des Moines, Iowa, recently for the Donna and Darnell Pettengill Civic Leadership Academy at Drake University, a three-day summer experience hosted by The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center in association with The Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy. 

  The academy is designed to help students grow as ethical leaders and active citizens—showing them they don’t have to wait until adulthood to make a difference. 

  Throughout the week, students explored leadership, communication, stress management, and integrity through hands-on workshops. They met with civic and business leaders, including representatives from United Way of Central Iowa and The Greater Des Moines Partnership, visited the Iowa State Capitol and Judicial Building, and connected with Drake University deans over lunch. They also gave back to the community by volunteering at Meals from the Heartland, packing meals for families in need. 

  The program also included sessions on personal branding and project planning to help students translate their ideas into real impact. Evening activities gave students a chance to bond with peers from across the nation while experiencing life on a college campus. 

  Named in honor of Donna and Darnell Pettengill, the academy encourages students to see themselves as changemakers in their communities.