SAN MARCOS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LOCAL ART
The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the kickoff of the 2025– 2026 Youth Leadership San Marcos (YLSM) Program, welcoming a new cohort of 15 outstanding high school students committed to developing their leadership potential and deepening their connection to the San Marcos community.
This year’s class in- cludes 10 students from San Marcos High School — Leonardo, Jonaven, Yajaira, Izari, Jose, John Paul, Natalie, Kealayna, Lilah, and Lucas — and 5 students from San Marcos Academy — David, Melanie, Sanban, Eli, and Kej. The program officially launched this fall with its first session in October.
YLSM is facilitated through a continued partnership with both local high schools. Clayton Odam of San Marcos CISD returns as a campus facilitator, and Ramez Amin joins the program this year as the new facilitator for San Marcos Academy. The program is led and coordinated by Cassie Gray, Education & Talent Pipeline Development Programs Coordinator at the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce.
“Youth Leadership San Marcos gives students the chance to discover what’s possible for their futures right here at home,” said Page Michel, President & CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “By connecting them with leaders, businesses, and real-world experiences throughout our city, we hope to spark a sense of belonging, pride, and excitement about pursuing their long-term goals in San Marcos.”
Running annually from October through April, YLSM includes eight themed sessions covering history, local government, public service, economic development, business and industry, health care, media and technology, and more. Students gain firsthand exposure to local industries and meet professionals who share their leadership journeys, career paths, and perspectives on working in San Marcos.
The program’s mission is to develop civicminded young leaders while increasing awareness of local career opportunities, helping retain talent and foster a stronger future workforce for the community.
YLSM will conclude in April with a graduation luncheon celebrating the students’ growth, accomplishments, and commitment to their community.
For more information on Youth Leadership San Marcos or the Chamber’s Education & Workforce Development initiatives, please contact the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce at 512-3935900 or chamber@sanmarcostexas. com.
