Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth Welcomes New Executive Director, Janette Meis

HAYS, Kan. October 27, 2025 Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Janette Meis as its new Executive Director. Meis brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, higher education, and youth programming, with a career dedicated to advancing opportunities for young people and strengthening Kansas communities.

Prior to joining Nex-Generation, Meis spent 10 years at Fort Hays State University, including two and a half years with the FHSU Alumni Association and the remainder as Communications Specialist in the Office of the President. Before her time at the university, she served 15 years as the State Director for Kansas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), where she led statewide efforts supporting volunteers who advocate for children in the foster care system.

“I’m thrilled to join an organization that’s making such a tangible difference in the lives of rural youth,” said Meis. “Nex-Generation’s programs open doors for young people to explore careers, build real-world skills, and envision a future right here in Northwest and North Central Kansas. I’m excited to help strengthen and grow those opportunities.”

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth continues to invest in the region’s future leaders through a variety of educational and career-based programs:

• Internship/Work Study Programs: Connecting high school and college students with local businesses to gain hands-on career experience. Business applications to host interns are currently open until December 1.

• Life$kills: In-person Interactive classroom sessions that teach students essential financial literacy and personal development skills. The deadline to apply is November 21.

• Virtual Career Fairs: Engaging online events that introduce students to regional employers and career pathways. Deadline for participating is October 30.

• Young AmeriTowne of Kansas: A hands-on learning experience designed for 4th – 8th grades, where students operate a simulated town, learning about entrepreneurship, civics, and economics. School enrollment deadline for Young AmeriTowne is October 31. To enroll go to: www.nex-generation.org/young-ameritowne

Starting in 2013, Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing and retaining youth for future careers in the 28 counties of Northwest and North Central. Through career exploration, leadership, and entrepreneurship programs, the organization helps young people envision their future close to home.

For more information about Nex-Generation’s programs or to apply/enroll in one of our programs, visit www.nex-generation.org or contact Janette Meis at jmeis@nex-generation.org.