North Catholic High School honors student Zachary Baker was named to the National Youth Leadership Council.

The Roots and Shoots National Youth Leadership Council, a program of the Jane Goodall Institute USA, is made up of a passionate group of young people from around the United States who are dedicated to making positive change happen in their communities--for people, animals, and the environment.

Council members are the youth voice of the Jane Goodall Institute USA and work to support its programs and help contribute to the organization’s success, while also leading projects in their communities.

Members are provided with comprehensive skills training and opportunities to mentor Roots and Shoots members and represent Roots and Shoots at events and conferences. Members gain access to influential leaders, receive in-depth training on community mapping and service learning, and gain access to resources to help them become leaders in their local communities. They are also exemplary compassionate decision-makers.

Zachary was selected from its largest group of candidates ever for an 11 month position on the Council. Since Zachary was 3, he has wanted to be a zoologist. Every year, he attends classes at the Pittsburgh Zoo and is working with the zoo to pursue his dream of working with animals.

At his school, Zachary is on Quiz Bowl team, the cross country team, swim team, and track and field team. He is also an accomplished triathlete and races with the Get Fit Families High Performance Triathlon Team.

Zachary is looking forward to his time on the National Youth Leadership Council and the doors it will open for him to go on to help animals, the environment ad conservation efforts in the future.

“The National Leadership Council will give me the tools I need to live out my dream of working with animals and expanding conservation measures.” Zachary said.