The following local students are among only 250 individuals chosen as National Youth Delegates to attend the Washington Youth Summit on the Environment at George Mason University.

Ann Riley Green, of Fairhope, a student at Fairhope High School has been selected to represent Alabama.

Reid Gambino, of Fairhope, a student at Fairhope High School has been selected to represent Alabama.

Luke Dolan, of Fairhope, a student at Fairhope High School has been selected to represent Alabama.

Harrison Tarabella, of Fairhope, a student at Fairhope High School has been selected to represent Alabama.

Bailey Megginson, of Montrose, a student at Fairhope High School has been selected to represent Alabama.

Mary Bedwell, of Summerdale, a student at Fairhope High School has been selected to represent Alabama.

These individuals have been awarded the opportunity to join a select group of students from all across the country to participate in an intensive week-long study of leadership in environmental science and conservation.They were chosen based on academic accomplishments and a demonstrated interest and excellence in leadership in the sciences and conservation studies.

George Mason University along with partners, National Geographic and the National Zoo are excited to welcome the nation's leading youth scholars to Washington, D.C. With distinguished faculty, guest speakers, and direct access to elite D.C. practitioners, the Washington Youth Summit on the Environment offers aspiring environmentalists an unparalleled experience. The week-long program is held at George Mason University's state-of-the-art campus. The Summit encourages and inspires young leaders who desire a unique experience focused on successful careers in this dynamic industry.

The Washington Youth Summit on the Environment will be held June 24-29, 2012.

About George Mason University

George Mason University is an innovative, entrepreneurial institution with global distinction in a range of academic fields. Located in Northern Virginia minutes from Washington, D.C., Mason provides access to diverse cultural experiences and the most sought-after internships and employers in the country. In addition to environmental science and policy, Mason offers strong undergraduate and graduate degree programs in engineering and information technology, organizational psychology, health care and visual and performing arts. With Mason professors conducting groundbreaking research in areas such as climate change, public policy and the biosciences, George Mason University is a leading example of the modern, public university. George Mason University -- Where Innovation Is Tradition.

About the 2012 Washington Youth Summit on the Environment

The Washington Youth Summit on the Environment (WYSE) is a unique student leadership conference designed to develop and encourage future leaders in the important field of environmental studies and conservation in the 21st century. The Advisory Board, is chaired by Mark Bauman, Executive Vice President of National Geographic Television and co-chaired by Joe Sacco, Educational Director for the National Zoo. Additional members include world renowned scholars, distinguished scientists and award winning university faculty, such as Dr. Tom Lovejoy, noted environmentalist and former executive vice president of the World Wildlife Fund. Delegates gain an insider look at environmental science, policy and conservation issues. For more information visit us online at wyse.gmu.edu.

The Washington Youth Summit on the Environment | 4400 University Drive | MSN 3A4 | Fairfax, VA 22030