Salem Jr/Sr High School sophomore Benjamin Ridler has been selected to represent the Salem Central School District at the 2026 Hugh O’Brian Youth (HOBY) State Leadership Seminar, scheduled to take place this spring.
Designed specifically for high school sophomores, the HOBY Leadership Seminar brings together students from more than 10,000 high schools around the world to develop leadership skills, explore personal values, and engage in meaningful service learning. Participants are chosen by their home school districts based on demonstrated leadership potential and community involvement.
Benjamin is an impactful member of his school community. He has demonstrated strong leadership skills through his involvement in the mock trial club, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) club, math team, and film club. He is also a dedicated participant in the music program, taking part in drama club, singing in chorus, and playing the clarinet in band.
Benjamin has further strengthened his leadership abilities through participation in the Sweethearts and Heroes BRAVE Program at Salem. This peer-to-peer, age-mixed youth leadership initiative brings together students from both the Jr./Sr. High School and Elementary School to foster positive relationships and school culture. His role as a leader and mentor within the school community helped distinguish him as a standout candidate for the HOBY nomination.
Participation in the HOBY program for the Salem Central School District is sponsored by the Salem Area Women’s Club. The HOBY program focuses on developing students’ leadership skills and encouraging them to apply those talents within their schools and communities.