Local student Fletcher Stephens has been selected to attend a competitive summer school for future political leaders in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Stephens, a 17-year-old rising senior at King’s Fork High School, found out recently that he has been selected to attend the 2012 High School Leaders Program conducted by the Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.

The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership, a private, non-profit organization affiliated with the University of Virginia, offers education to community leaders as they prepare for public service. Sorensen provides opportunities for meaningful dialogue with political leaders from around the state and an education that transcends party politics. Students participate in debates about controversial public policy and meet with a high-level group of leaders from government, business, non-profits and academia.

Stephens hopes to study criminal justice following graduation. He is particularly excited about the opportunity to connect with other future leaders from throughout Virginia and to gain the skills to become an effective advocate for positive change within the state.

Stephens has been active in extra-curricular and community activities, including Student Council, golf team and swim team.

Stephens is raising money to pay for his room, board, tuition and other expenses while at the program. Anyone wishing to make an individual donation to help him can send a check to: Youth Programs, The Sorensen Institute, P.O. Box 400206, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4206. Checks should be made payable to Sorensen Institute and include a note that Fletcher Stephens is the intended beneficiary. Contributions to the Sorensen Institute scholarship fund are tax deductible.