RUMFORD — Mountain Valley High School Sophomores Carita DeTellis and Caleb Gauvin were selected to attend the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership program as ambassadors in early June. Ambassadors are chosen based on their potential to lead others.

In her application essay, DeTellis defined leadership by writing, “When geese migrate in the V formation they add greater flying range than if they each flew alone. They take turns directing the flock; willing to share their leadership position if another had the ability at the moment to guide the flock to its destination.”

She continued, “I believe everyone has the capability to be a leader. Leadership is not simply a position meant to be filled, it is a disposition people can exhibit regardless of whatever formal title they may carry in their organization… Ultimately, leadership is recognizing where needs are and moving forward to serve the rest of the flock.”

DeTellis demonstrates her leadership skills in Interact, International Club, Civil Rights Club and through other volunteer organizations. She also mentors younger students from Rumford Elementary School.

Gauvin wrote in his leadership essay, “Being a leader in my school and community is very rewarding and challenging. The most rewarding aspect of being a leader is that you can see your club doing great and see the rewards from your leadership. The most challenging aspect is that you must put extra time and effort into the organization or club in order to do it correctly. Being a leader allows me to grow as a person.”

Gauvin demonstrates his leadership skills in sports and Youth Ministry at Holy Savior Church. At MVHS, he plays football, basketball and baseball. He also skis and plays golf in his spare time. Gauvin teaches ski lessons at Black Mountain and volunteers for Area Youth Football.

According to the website, HOBY programs provide unique leadership training, service-learning and motivation-building experiences. Nearly 9,000 students participate in HOBY programs each year.