A trio of Huntington High School students will participate in a leadership institute in Albany
A trio of Huntington High School students will participate in a leadership institute in Albany 

Huntington Trio Preps for State Leadership Institute

January 16, 2025

Huntington High School juniors Emely Herrera Rivas and Heileen Torres and senior Gabriela Amaya are exceptional young woman. The trio recently completed their third full day of preparatory sessions and training for this year’s Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute in Albany.

Judy Goris Moroff with the three Huntington students prepping for a state leadership conference.

“The Institute affords Hispanic youth greater insight into the dynamic nature of state government, provides a forum for students to share ideas and concerns impacting the Hispanic community and offers participants the opportunity to develop leadership skills,” according to a program profile.

All three Huntington teenagers are seeking to grow in every possible way and each of them is interested in making a difference in the world and improving their community. They all know that serving in government in one way to accomplish their worthwhile goals.

“Over the past few months, they have diligently participated in leadership development and civic engagement study virtual sessions as part of the PRHYLI program,” said Judy Goris Moroff, Huntington UFSD’s director of world languages, dual language and English as a new language. “Each student has showcased their commitment to understanding New York State government and the legislative process and engaging in thoughtful debates.”

Prospective participants in the Institute are required to complete an application packet and submit a typed resume along with two letters of recommendation and a “meaningful and responsive essay” of at least 250 words that described their interest in “leadership, government policy making, the issues facing youth and the Hispanic community and the qualities/experiences that make them an outstanding candidate.”

“I am proud to see them heading to Albany in March, where they will join fellow students from across New York State in a Mock Assembly debate in the State Assembly chamber,” Ms. Moroff said. “Thank you for representing our community and district so well. We are excited to see all you will accomplish.”