Students at Summit High School in the snowy, mountain town of Frisco, Colorado received a special visit today from Lieutenant Governor Barbara O’Brien -- the first stop in a statewide swing to promote student participation in “Write to Lead,” a unique opportunity for Colorado youth to become involved in the 2008 Democratic National Convention experience.

O’Brien reminded students that they have opportunities every day to be leaders -- whether in the classroom, in competitive sports, or in other extracurricular activities. She challenged Summit students to take on positive leadership roles. “Leaders – good and bad – have a big impact on people’s lives,” she said.

The “Write to Lead” essay contest is organized by the Democratic National Convention Committee, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest Communications and invites Colorado middle and high school students to submit an essay on leadership and the future of our country. Two students will be named as Presidential Winners and have the opportunity to attend the Democratic National Convention in Denver, while finalists will serve as ambassadors to state delegations across the country. 

“Many former presidents and other leaders were inspired by meeting a president they admired in person at an early age. President Clinton often recalls the day he met President Kennedy,” O’Brien said. “Who knows? Maybe you could have the opportunity to attend the Convention and even meet the next president of the United States. And that could inspire you to pursue a leadership role.”

Students can find additional information on the contest and submit their essays at www.demconvention.com/write-to-lead.

UPDATE: See article on this event in the Summit Daily News. 

VIDEO: Check out this video from the event in Frisco!