Hispanic Youth Leadership Club, or HYLC, is a club that assists students to have leadership skills, and teaches students to be proud of themselves and proud of where they came from. The club was founded by David Duran, a migrant student who had graduated from the University of Oregon. Duran wanted to highlight the importance of college education, and he wanted to support students on that journey. This club was created about thirty years ago, and now many schools in our surrounding counties participate in HYLC. 

Cindy Newsome, a Spanish teacher at Hughson High, is the advisor for HYLC. She said, “I think the best part of HYLC is knowing that you belong, no matter if you are Hispanic or not.” Newsome makes sure to be welcoming and encouraging to all students on campus, as well as HYLC members. When asked to tell students something about HYLC, she said, “I would like others to know that we work a lot of community service hours that you might need when applying to universities.” HYLC partners up with the club CSF to plan two trips to colleges during the school year. Newsome said, “I love Academics Alive, awarding scholarships is extremely rewarding because I know they are beginning an amazing journey that is university life.” HYLC also rewards hardworking members by going on an end-of-the year trip to Six Flags or Monterey Bay Aquarium. 

Naomie Avila is the co-president of HYLC. She wanted to join this club to get out of her comfort zone and meet new people. When asked about what the best part of HYLC is, she said, “The strong sense of community. Mrs. Newsome, our club advisor, is incredibly kind and always pushes us to do our best!” Naomie also mentioned that the members of the club are very welcoming and that it is fun to hosting activities, participating in fundraisers, and accomplishing their goals together. Naomie said, “I am looking forward to our winter social! Last year it was Loteria themed, and I had fun making the decorations but I hope more people can attend this year so we can all celebrate the event together with music, dancing, and food!”

Amberly Arguello and Luis Padilla are both vice presidents of HYLC. Amberly said, “I decided to join this club last year because I wanted to try something new and help other within my community.” She said that teamwork is an important part this club, and that every member contributes effort and time into HYLC. Amberly said, “I am definitely looking forward to our annual social event. It is a super fun event where we have food, dance, and you can have fun socializing with others.” Luis said, “I decided to join HYLC to help the community.” He said that the club feels like family, and that the members and officers are always willing to help one another. He said, “The best part about being in HYLC is the community service.” Luis added that he is looking forward to the tours the club takes to different college campuses. He said, “I want people to know that HYLC isn’t just for Hispanics and that anyone is welcome to it.”