Congressman Patrick McHenry shares how he first got involved in conservative activism and encourages the students to advance their ideas at their schools.
(Above) Young America’s Foundation Vice President Kate Obenshain urges the high school conference attendees to stand strong for their ideas. (Right) Students from 25 states travel to our nation’s capital for the 14th Gratia Houghton Rinehart National High School Leadership Conference.
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Young America’s Foundation | Libertas | Winter 2012
into one’s everyday lifestyle, mentioning that, throughout the preliminary Miss America competition, her faith played a major role in maintaining a humble, level-headed demeanor. “The true definition of humility is thinking of yourself less and putting others first,” said Scanlan. Another student favorite was Jason Mattera, editor of Human Events and Foundation alumnus. Mattera, a graduate of Young America’s Foundation’s National Journalism Center and former Foundation spokesman, analyzed the successes and failures of the Obama administration from a young person’s perspective. Mattera explained how the Left champions social media outlets and effectively uses cultural icons. To combat this, Mattera advised the young audience to implement practical strategies that make use of music, media, and culture to communicate with their peers. Mattera argued that liberalism’s hegemony on young people is fading, contending that Obama has “lost some of his mojo.” “However, he must still have some magic,” quipped Mattera, “because he pulled a Houdini and made all the jobs disappear!” Also addressing disappearing jobs and the dismal economy, Dr. Burt Folsom—popular