MONTPELIER – Vermont Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas recognized Greensboro native Emma Rowell as a finalist for the 2026 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award at the Vermont Statehouse on Monday.
photo by Heather Lumsden
The national honor recognizes young leaders under the age of 25 who demonstrate exceptional leadership, a commitment to social justice and a dedication to improving their communities.
The John Lewis Youth Leadership Award is presented by secretaries of state across the country through the National Association of Secretaries of State. The award honors the legacy of the late Congressman John Lewis, whose courage during the civil rights movement and lifelong commitment to public service continue to inspire generations of Americans.
Rowell graduated from Hazen Union High School last year and is currently pursuing her college education through Southern New Hampshire University.
While pursuing her studies, she serves her community as a 911 dispatcher for the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department, a role that places her on the front lines of public safety and emergency response.
A dedicated member of 4-H for the past nine years, Rowell made a lasting impact in her hometown by reestablishing a 4-H club in Greensboro after more than 45 years without one.
Her leadership has also been recognized at the state and national levels. In 2024, Rowell was selected as one of four Vermont 4-H representatives to attend the National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C. During the conference, she gave a presentation on the topic “Supporting Connectedness as a Protective Factor” during a roundtable discussion for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
In 2025, Rowell led her local 4-H club in securing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to create an inclusive, safe and sustainable community gathering space in Greensboro. Serving as a key youth leader, she guided the project from planning through implementation, helping to enhance the town’s outdoor environment while supporting local businesses and performers impacted by the pandemic. The sheltered, year-round space is expected to foster community connection, provide opportunities for live performances and strengthen the resilience of local public spaces.
Paul Fixx is editor of The Hardwick Gazette and lives in Hardwick.
