Cadet Ellie McDonald, distinguished honor graduate, addresses her graduating class during the Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy Graduation 17 at Sparta High School, Sparta, Wis. After graduating from the 22-week residential phase of academy training, cadets work with hometown mentors who offer guidance and encouragement in pursuing their new direction in life. The National Guard Youth Challenge Program currently operates 40 programs in 29 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. Nationwide, more than 190,000 teens have graduated from this free program since its inception in 1993. Wisconsin National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Alice Ripberger