Applications for 2025 – 2026 will open on February 1st.
500+ students have graduated from 
CAYLI develops leaders to engage and serve their local communities.
Participants have impacted Faulkner County through various service projects such as building gift baskets for HAVEN House residents, collecting supplies for The Conway City Animal Shelter, and more.
About CAYLI
Since 1995, The Conway Area Youth Leadership Institute (CAYLI) has been cultivating young leaders within our community to address community challenges of a growing area. Through exposure to social and economic industries CAYLI students will become aware of opportunities for community involvement and improvement.
• Represents a cooperative effort between UCA Outreach & Community Engagement, Conway Area Youth Leadership Institute, and school districts throughout Faulkner County.
• Developing strong leaders while building a thriving community.
• Addresses the challenges and opportunities of our community.
• Exposes students to avenues for community involvement and improvement.
• Informs students on various career and college opportunities
Goals
• Develop leadership potential in high school students by promoting an atmosphere that will enrich students for leadership roles.
• Broaden the community awareness of each participant.
• Increase community involvement and engagement.
• Provide mentoring and career exploration opportunities.
To participate:
Applications will be open on February 1st, 2025, and close by the end of the day on February 28th, 2025.
The Conway Area Youth Leadership Institute is open to Faulkner County students currently enrolled in the 10th and 11th grades.
Selection is based on:
• Demonstration of involvement and leadership with peers in school and community settings with a desire to become a more effective leader.
• Commitment to attend a retreat in the summer (July 2025) and all training sessions (September – March) during the 2025-2026 school year.
• Ability to pay a $75 enrollment fee. (Some scholarships are available – see application)
Special effort is made to ensure a diverse group is selected.
Teachers, parents, and others are encouraged to nominate students and encourage them to apply.
Kendall Watson
Class of 2023
I enjoyed this program in all of its glory. I was able to meet new people with whom I still have connections, experience different ways to help my community and grasp a better idea as to what I want to do in the future. I am attending the University of Arkansas in Fall 2024 with an intended major in Architecture within the Fay Jones School. I learned that I wanted to help be the person to create unique spaces in which the community can come together and rejoice. I came into this program without having an idea as to what to expect but left knowing that I have an amazing support group of smart and talented individuals who will be at my side when I need them the most.
Shaylee Stolzer
Class of 2022
As a CAYLI student, I learned interview skills through a mock interview that prepared me for real life. Since then I have received 3 jobs due to the skills that CAYLI gave me. I am currently a freshman at UCA majoring in Biochemistry with research through Dr. Quamar. I’ve held various leadership roles including President of Student Council, Valedictorian, NHS Vice President, Vice President of Beta, Secretary of FCCLA, and received a job at UCA Outreach through CAYLI connections.
Emmy Block
Class of 2020
My experience with CAYLI was excellent. I’m so glad I did this program. I’ve gained leadership skills that I have applied in college. Currently, I’m a junior at Arkansas Tech University pursuing a degree in Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management! I am currently the Z-Hope Coordinator for the Beta Phi Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. I am a transfer student orientation leader and a volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club.
To graduate:
A participant is expected to attend all sessions and complete the following requirements:
• Summer Retreat – A two-day session (overnight) (July 2025)
• Attend seven monthly sessions – session times will vary
• Conduct a community service project
• Participate in group fundraising
Graduation will be held in April 2026.
History of CAYLI Year In Review
For more information, contact Reuel Shepherd at youthleadership@uca.edu or call 501-450-3429.