Manalis Espinosa, a Jamestown High School senior, is pictured during a recent trip to Washington, D.C., she received as a member of the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute. Submitted photo

Jamestown High School senior Manalis Espinoza was recently recognized by the Jamestown Public Schools Board of Education for an honor she received as a member of the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute.

Manalis was one of nine students from New York state’s PR/HYLI program who won a trip to Washington, D.C.

The PR/HYLI program holds an annual convention of more than 700 Hispanic students to foster leadership skills and introduce them to New York state’s legislative process, including researching and debating bills.

“I loved visiting Washington, D.C., and seeing all of the monuments. The Martin Luther King, Jr. monument was my favorite, it touched me,” said Manalis. “I took my first plane flight and Washington is so different from here. It opened my eyes to a new experience and I would love to go back.”

While in Washington, Manalis visited all the major monuments, traveled to Mt. Vernon, received a private tour of the U.S. Capitol, met with politicians to talk about important issues including gun laws and housing issues and enjoyed a river cruise.

Manalis’ visit was made possible through her participation in PR/HYLI. During PR/HYLI this year, Manalis held the highest position during the student debates as Speaker of the House, responsible for calling on students during the debate.

“Manalis excels in every area – academics, music, and community service. During the PRHYLI State-wide assembly, Manalis presided over 200 students as Speaker of the House,” said Norma DeJoy, JHS ELA teacher and PR/HYLI co-advisor. “She was so impressive while under a lot of pressure. Eli Perez, the PRHYLI co-advisor and PRHYLI trainer, and I are so proud of all that Manalis has accomplished!”

Manalis will attend Jamestown Community College with plans to become a teacher.