TOWSON, MD—The World Trade Center Institute has named seven Baltimore County Public Schools students among the inaugural class of participants in its Youth Diplomats Program.

The new program for Maryland high school juniors and seniors offers workshops, meetings with professionals, and volunteer opportunities for students who are curious about the world, open to diverse perspectives, committed to making an impact locally and globally, and who advocate for human rights, equality. and peace.

In total, 31 students, representing 23 schools from six counties and Baltimore City, have been selected through a rigorous application process for the inaugural class. The BCPS participants are:

• Rebecca Angin, Parkville High School
• Ruhshana Bobo, Pikesville High School
• Alexandra Kaiss, George Washington Carver Center for Arts & Technology
• Julia Kallaur, Towson High School
• Cameron Rozankowski, Parkville High School
• Lena Wang, Eastern Technical High School
• Rylee Wienhold, Perry Hall High School

The Youth Diplomats Program includes eight workshops, held on Saturdays from January 25 through August 15, 2020. The program also incorporates components such as a group trip to Washington, D.C.; a meeting with the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program; and a hosted dinner with international families.

Eddie Resende, co-CEO of the World Trade Center Institute, said, “The program is designed to increase the younger generation’s appreciation for some of today’s most pressing global issues in international affairs and business. We hope their experiences in our program inspire them to become global citizens and pursue careers in some of the program’s featured topics.”

The students will also earn 25 service-learning hours, gain cultural competency, and further a connection to the network of Youth Diplomats from around the nation, as well as advance their abilities to demonstrate knowledge of global affairs to colleges and employers.

“This program is meant to empower students with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to make a positive impact both locally and globally,” says Zachary Sheaffer, assistant manager of programs and operations for WTCI. “After all, they are our future leaders.”

Upon completion of the program, the Youth Diplomats will be deemed Albrecht Fellows. The Albrecht Fellowships’ goal is to help globally-minded students become the next generation of international leaders.