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High School Leaders Attended the 29th Annual Youth Citizenship Seminar 

June 27, 2006 - High-achieving high school juniors from throughout Southern California spent five memorable, idea-filled days at Pepperdine, exploring leadership themes with professionals who have successfully carved their own leadership niche. 

The 29th annual Youth Citizenship Seminar (YCS) took place June 26 through June 30, on Pepperdine’s Malibu campus. The seminar aimed to inspire new interest and greater zeal in "the future leaders of America," according to Pepperdine Chancellor Charles B. Runnels, the program’s founder.

"Today's ambitious high school students are ready to expand their horizons," Runnels explains. "By listening to inspiring presentations, participating in interactive workshops, and communicating one-on-one with more than 20 world renowned speakers and leaders from all walks of life, these young people leave here better prepared to begin their own quest to make a positive difference in our world." 

Each year, approximately 1,200 YCS applications are received from public and independent high schools throughout Southern California. The 265 students selected to attend represent a wide variety of strengths through their scholastic, athletic, musical and theatrical accomplishments, and they collectively embody a unique desire to make a personal contribution to America's future.

The YCS experience is the culmination of six months of planning, and operates on a budget of over $300,000 in privately donated funds. Each of the participants is awarded a scholarship to attend; their tuition and on-campus expenses are funded by The Pilgrim Foundation, the YCS Committee of Endorsement, business leaders and foundations throughout the country. The longevity of this event is the direct result of its founder's ongoing belief in today’s young people, "the future leaders of America."