Celebrating the power of writing and community spirit, sophomore Hannah Dycus has achieved something truly remarkable by snagging a free trip to Washington D.C. with a captivating essay exploring the impact of electric cooperatives. Dycus has not only shown off her impressive writing skills, but she also highlighted her understanding of the history of the Electric Cooperative Corporation Act and how it shaped our nation’s current electric system. 

Hannah shared about this opportunity which was presented through Counselor Mollie Huber. “I love writing and I've always wanted to go to D.C., so having this opportunity to be chosen and go on a trip is exciting!” 

Dycus, along with 150 students across the state of Texas, will travel to Washington D.C. this summer. The Texas group will meet participants from other states at the nation's capital, where they will meet State Representatives as well as explore Capitol Hill. These students will learn about the impact electric cooperatives have had on our communities as well as how programs like the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) International are impacting lives around the world. 

When asked about encouragement for fellow classmates who are on the fence about entering these types of contests, Hannah stated, “It's a good experience, because you learn… even though it may seem like a small thing, or it may seem like everybody's going to do it… just have that confidence, because you never know. I didn't think I was going to be chosen. And I got it.”

As Hannah heads off this summer to DC, it’s a great reminder that every voice matters in shaping our communities. So, here's to Troy ISD students sparking conversations and making us all proud. We can't wait to hear all about her adventures upon her return!