USC freshman to attend FBINAA Youth Leadership Program

Abby first heard about the FBI program from her father, Paul Petras, a retired deputy chief of the Mt. Lebanon Police Department. He had attended the FBI National Academy in 2019. 

“I was able to attend his graduation, listen to his stories, and speak to his other classmates about their experiences,” Abby said. “This inspired me to want to attend the FBINAA Youth Leadership Program when I was eligible.”

To be considered for the Youth Leadership Program, applicants must be rising high school sophomores or juniors between 14-16 years old. Students must demonstrate high academic standards and good citizenship. Sixty-two students are selected annually from the United States and around the world to participate.

Inspired by her dad’s public service, Abby is looking forward to learning how she can impact others. 

“I knew that I wanted to learn more about law enforcement, ethics, leadership, helping others, and making a difference in the world,” Abby said. “My motivation came from my father. I grew up in a law enforcement family, with my father serving as a Mt. Lebanon police officer for 22 years and retiring as their deputy chief.”

The Youth Leadership Program includes extensive classroom study, physical fitness, guest lectures and leadership experiences. The program focuses on issues facing today’s youth, including fundamentals of leadership; fitness, nutrition and resiliency; time management; values and choices; social media & internet survival; managing change; ethical leadership; and more. 

“I am most excited about participating in the intense classroom instruction, various physical fitness programs, guest lectures, and leadership experiences/field trips,” Abby said. “I am also looking forward to meeting other students from around the country and the world, as well as learning from the law enforcement professionals who will serve as our instructors.”

At Upper St. Clair High School, Abby has demonstrated high academic achievement, dedication, leadership and has made a positive impact by example. She was nominated to the USCHS Dean's list. She competes on the girls’ soccer team and was a member of the ensemble for the school's recent production of "Mary Poppins." She participates in the Partners in Health and Cooking with Care clubs. 

In addition, Abby has a passion to serve others as she volunteers at her church, The South Hills Bible Chapel, and with local veterans. She is participating in the St. Lucy's Auxiliary to the Blind Junior Medallion Program, working toward the St. Joan of Arc Medallion for community service and volunteerism.

The Youth Leadership Program is hosted by the FBI National Academy Associates, Inc., an international alumni organization of senior law enforcement professionals who have graduated from the 10-week FBI National Program. Interested students apply for the program through their local FBI National Academy Associates Chapter and participate in a competitive interview process at the Pittsburgh FBI Field Office. The application deadline for this year’s program was Feb. 3, 2025.

Upper St. Clair is represented by the program’s Western Pennsylvania Chapter. For more information about the FBI National Academy Associates Youth Leadership Program, contact 
Jason Haberman, Youth Leadership Program coordinator and Mt. Lebanon chief of police, at Jhaberman@mtlebanon.org.