We are proud to introduce the first-ever Greater Mankato Area United Way YOUTH UNITED Committee Chair; Miss Emmerson Lancaster.

Emmerson, who goes by Emme, is a 16-year-old junior at Mankato East High School. She also is a full-time PSEO student taking college courses at Minnesota State University Mankato. She is so excited to serve as the Chair of the Greater Mankato Area United Way YOUTH UNITED Committee. Dance is her greatest passion, and she is a competitive dancer at Dance Express, where she participates in the National Honors Society of Dance Arts program. She hopes to continue dancing in college. Outside of school, Emme loves spending time with family and friends, traveling, and experiencing new things. As the youngest of four, she’s always looked up to her older siblings, parents, and grandparents for inspiration and guidance. Emme loves to give back to the community, and she feels that being a part of this group is a way to make a positive impact and contribute to meaningful change in the lives of others.

We are proud to introduce the first-ever Greater Mankato Area United Way YOUTH UNITED Committee Vice Chair; Miss Sydney Cusick.
Sydney, who sometimes goes by Syd, is a 15-year-old sophomore at Mankato East High School. She is an AVID student participating in 2 enriched courses, and an advanced placement (AP) class. She is also a member of Project for Teens (P4T). Tennis is one of her interests, and she is a part of the Varsity Girls Tennis team also at East. Syd has been selected as a FIAT Leader at Camp Summit, an overnight faith-filled summer adventure camp for middle school youth, through her church. People describe Sydney as friendly, helpful, and a leader. She loves giving back to the community, being an example, and helping out younger generations. Doing volunteer work through Greater Mankato Area United Way has been a great way to give back and she enjoys doing it! Sydney is grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to see YOUTH UNITED grow!