Leavenworth students selected for Rotary Youth Exchange

LEAVENWORTH — Two Leavenworth students have been selected to participate in the 2026–27 Rotary Youth Exchange program.

Ridley Foley and Alexandra Chase were chosen by Rotary District 5060 to serve as outbound exchange students for the upcoming school year, according to a district announcement .

The students will live abroad for up to 10 months, attend school and participate in daily life in their host countries.

Students were selected through a competitive application process that began in the fall and included interviews at both the local Rotary club and district levels. Over the next six months, participants will attend preparation sessions focused on cultural awareness, language development, mental health strategies and navigating culture shock.

“I applied for Rotary Youth Exchange, so I had an opportunity to meet new people and learn a new language” shared Foley .

“This experience will help me be more open to new ideas and learn to adapt to new situations.,” shared Chase .

Local Rotary clubs sponsor outbound students and provide guidance throughout the exchange. Foley will represent the Cashmere Rotary Club, and Chase will represent the Leavenworth Sunrise Rotary Club .

In addition to sending outbound students, Rotary District 5060 will welcome inbound students from other countries this fall. Those students will live with host families in communities across the United States and Canada.

Rotary Youth Exchange is an international program that places students in host communities to promote cultural understanding. Rotary District 5060 serves communities across North Central Washington and Interior British Columbia and supports local clubs in youth leadership, community service and exchange programs .