Goffstown Graduate Selected as NH’s First Presiding Officer for the 2027 YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs
July 23, 2026Goffstown Graduate Selected as NH’s First Presiding Officer for the 2027 YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs
The Granite YMCA is proud to announce that Goffstown High School graduate Noah Babin has been selected as a Presiding Officer for the 2027 YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs (CONA), becoming the first student from New Hampshire to earn one of the conference's highest leadership positions.
CONA is the YMCA's premier week-long summer leadership and civic engagement conference for high school students involved in YMCA Youth and Government programs. This annual event, held in North Carolina, attracts more than 600 delegates from across the country who gather to write, present, and debate policy proposals addressing national and international issues. For more than 55 years, the student-led conference has provided young people with a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, strengthen their understanding of government, and engage in civil discourse.
At the conclusion of each conference, only six graduating seniors are chosen from a highly competitive pool of approximately 200 recent graduates to serve as the next year's Presiding Officers. These student leaders are responsible for planning and leading the conference, mentoring delegates, and guiding legislative debate.
Babin, a four-year participant in New Hampshire YMCA Youth and Government and the 2026 Youth Governor, was selected for this prestigious role following this year's conference. His election marks a historic milestone for New Hampshire's Youth and Government program, and he will preside at the 2027 YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly.
Prior to the next assembly and this fall, Babin will attend Harvard University, where he plans to study economics and government. During his time at Goffstown High School, he graduated at the top of his class, served in numerous leadership roles, and earned the respect of classmates, teachers, and fellow delegates through his dedication, humility, and commitment to public service.
His selection as a CONA Presiding Officer is a significant honor for both Babin and the New Hampshire YMCA Youth and Government program and reflects the impact of student leadership within the Granite State.
About The Granite YMCA
As one of the state’s longest standing and most enduring non-profits, The Granite YMCA focuses on youth development, healthy living, social responsibility, and family strengthening. Across the state, its seven branches, and two overnight camps, engages 30,000 men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to improve their health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. In 2025, The Granite YMCA provided financial assistance and free services valued at over $1.6 million to 12,000 individuals. To learn more, please visit www.graniteymca.org.
