Julia Fuerst-Montanez, a junior at Walter Panas High School, has been selected
to participate in the 2025–2026 Hudson Valley Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute
(PR/HYLI). The elite program includes up to 100 students per year.
Students from around the region are chosen for this prestigious program, which brings together
students who are committed to leadership, civic engagement, and advocacy. Facilitated by the Hudson
Valley PR/HYLI delegation, the free 30-hour leadership program focuses on developing public speaking
skills, critical thinking, and civic engagement.
The five training sessions provide a transformative journey of personal growth, cultural empowerment,
and leadership development. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the PRHYLI Weekend
at Rockland Community College and 50 selected students from this group will also attend the PRHYLI
Weekend in Albany next spring.