Scholar Rylee Peak Selected as National Student Delegate for Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C.
Rylee Peak, a TRIO Honors Scholar and Middle College student at Moreno Valley College, was selected as one of only 100 students nationwide to attend the 2025 National Student Leadership Congress (NSLC), hosted by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) in Washington, D.C.
The event, held June 15 to 19 at American University, brought together top high school students from across the United States and its territories, including Puerto Rico and Guam. The five-day experience focused on leadership development, civic engagement, and hands-on policy training.
Now in its 36th year, the NSLC challenges delegates to research real-world policy issues, draft legislation, and debate with peers during a Mock Congress. In addition to meeting with members of Congress on Capitol Hill, students participate in college and career planning workshops, leadership seminars, and community service projects. The program is designed to empower students from Upward Bound, Talent Search, and other TRIO programs with the tools they need to lead, advocate, and succeed.
“I was so excited to advocate for TRIO, the program that always advocates for me,” said Peak, reflecting on the moment he received his nomination letter from TRIO Director Micki Grayson. “When I read the program description, I knew immediately this was something I had to do.”
Throughout the week, Peak engaged with fellow scholars, TRIO alumni, and elected officials, including representatives from US Congressman Mark Takano’s office. Takano’s team is a longtime supporter of Moreno Valley College’s TRIO programs. Peak was particularly inspired by the keynote speakers, many of whom were also former TRIO students.
“One of our mentors, Angela, was phenomenal,” he said. “She’s a leader who genuinely means it when she says her door is always open.”
Beyond his academic accomplishments, Peak is a dedicated public servant. Since eighth grade, he has served on the City of Moreno Valley’s Parks, Community Services, and Trails Commission. Now chairperson, he works closely with other commissioners to review policies and make recommendations to the City Council, representing the needs of more than 50,000 youth and adults in his community.
“As chair, I not only lead meetings and introduce agenda items, but I also have the unique opportunity to bring issues forward that affect our youth,” he said. “This commission has taught me how to lead effectively, speak with confidence, and serve with integrity.”
Peak credits his parents, TRIO mentors, and local leaders for their role in shaping his journey. One of his greatest inspirations is Council Member Elena Baca-Santa Cruz, whom he calls the pinnacle of public service.
“I plan to attend a four-year university, continue serving the community, and in 2026, I’ll be running for mayor of Moreno Valley,” he said. “If elected, I would be one of the youngest mayors in US history and the youngest in California.”
To Peak, being a TRIO Honors Scholar means more than academic achievement. It symbolizes a support system and a path forward.
“It means having a community behind you in every decision you make,” he said. “Without TRIO, I wouldn’t have the support I need to go to college. Ms. Micki always reminds us that we are worthy, we belong, and we can succeed. The MVC TRIO pledge she wrote motivates us every day.”
As he enters his senior year, balancing college coursework, civic leadership, and service, Peak continues to live by the motto, “Service above self.”
“My inspiration comes from my community,” he said. “I wake up thinking about who I’m going to help. That’s what keeps me going.”
For more information about TRIO programs at Moreno Valley College, visit the TRIO Programs page. For more information about middle college, visit the Middle College High School program page.