The 2025 NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.) brought together 32 exceptional high school students from across the United States. The all-expenses-paid week in Washington, D.C., was dedicated to leadership development, civic engagement and education on American history and government.
Funded in part by The NRA Foundation, through contributions from the Friends of NRA, Y.E.S. is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for rising juniors and seniors. The gathering is a chance to discuss current events, participate in structured debates, gain a deeper understanding of the legislative process and build lifelong connections with peers who share a commitment to freedom, responsibility and public service.
A Week Of Immersive Learning
The summit opened at NRA Headquarters in Fairfax, Va., where students participated in hands-on programming, including a guided tour of the NRA National Firearms Museum, a question-and-answer session with NRA leadership, a mock Friends of NRA event and live-fire opportunities on the NRA Range.
Students also explored some of the nation’s most historic and symbolic sites, including Capitol Hill, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, the National Archives Museum, the National Museum of the United States Army and Arlington National Cemetery. There they participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Debate, Leadership And Scholarships
A signature component of Y.E.S. is the mock debate series. Assigned to teams and topics prior to arrival, students researched, prepared and refined their arguments throughout the week before competing in formal debate sessions. Participants were evaluated on their performance, leadership, collaboration and engagement.
At the week’s conclusion, $20,000 in End-of-Week Scholarships were awarded to 10 students who demonstrated exceptional performance and commitment:
- $1,000: Colton G. (Minn.)
- $1,000: Justice S. (Ore.)
- $1,000: Aydri R. (Ind.)
- $1,000: Kolin R. (Utah)
- $1,000: Julian F. (Ohio)
- $2,000: Jacob S. (R.I.)
- $2,000: Campbell B. (Texas)
- $3,000: Mary C. (Wash.)
- $4,000: Elie A. (Va.)
- $4,000: Sam P. (Maine)
An Evening of Reflection and Inspiration
The week concluded with a formal awards dinner featuring keynote speaker Tom DeBolt, CEO of Benelli USA, who addressed the importance of leadership, personal responsibility and service to country. Several participants also shared their reflections on the transformative experience.
Looking Ahead
With the 2025 Summit complete, participants can now apply for the NRA Youth Education Summit Grand Scholarship by leading community outreach efforts that promote NRA safety and education programs, including Eddie Eagle Gunsafe, Refuse To Be A Victim and Women on Target. More than $10,000 in additional scholarship funding will be awarded through the Grand Scholarship.
Applications for the 2026 Youth Education Summit will open in Fall 2025. The next session is scheduled for July 2026. For more information or to apply, visit yes.nra.org.
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