Joel Smith from Mineola joined outstanding middle school students from across the nation this summer to take part in a unique academic development experience at the University of Texas at Dallas.

Smith took part in the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) Explore STEM program.

NYLF Explore STEM is among Envision programs (www.envisionexperience.com) that enable students to explore interests and experiences beyond the classroom.

Smith was nominated to attend the forum by his eighth-grade teacher, Teri Bedford at Mineola Middle School. Smith is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, participates in Student Council and will be playing in the high school band this year. With dreams of being a computer engineer, he gained hands-on experience by building, programming and successfully running a robot through an obstacle course.

Since 1985, Envision programs have served more than 800,000 students in more than 145 countries with programs designed to help students develop the leadership, scholarship and career skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive college and career landscape.

Joel is the son of Tracey Brooks and Josh Smith. He is the grandson of Norma McVicker and Mark and Kathy Smith. Joel would like to thank Kim Rushing Galyean, The Mineola Kiwanis Club, and his family for helping him attend camp.