December 19, 2015
MYCA program director Jan Rouse said 74 cadets were graduated at the ceremony which featured Bullock and distinguished guest Bo Reichenbach, a 2005 Youth Challenge graduate who went on to become a Navy SEAL.
Reichenbach who spoke to the cadets about the challenges he has faced, received a critical injury requiring amputation of both legs while serving in Afghanistan.
“I want you to know and remember that you have been a positive presence on this campus,” Chancellor Weatherby told the graduates. “The way you carry yourselves and your energy and intense focus symbolize great courage and persistence. We will miss you.”
The MYCA is a five and a half month long program similar to military bootcamp. The academy assists at-risk Montana youth in developing skills and abilities necessary to become productive citizens by using proven techniques of discipline and motivation to assist youth in turning their lives around.
“Each graduation is unique in its own way but all share the common theme of returning young men and women to their communities as productive and responsible contributors to the future of our state and nation, Rouse said.
Since 1999 the program has graduated 2,453 students.
Montana Western
