The 2025–2026 school year brought renewed energy, leadership, and growth to Best Buddies in Wyoming, with two chapters standing out for their commitment to building stronger communities through friendship and inclusion.

Cheyenne East High School and the University of Wyoming were recognized as 2025–2026 Outstanding Chapters of the Year, celebrating the incredible work their students and leaders accomplished throughout the school year. While both chapters are at different points in their journeys, they share a common thread: passionate student leaders who are committed to creating opportunities for friendship and growing Best Buddies in Wyoming.

After attending the 2025 Best Buddies Leadership Conference, student leaders returned to Wyoming more inspired than ever to bring what they learned back to their schools and communities. At Cheyenne East High School, that inspiration quickly turned into action. Under the leadership of their chapter president, the chapter hosted its first-ever Friendship Walk, creating a new opportunity for students, families, and community members to come together in support of friendship and inclusion.

The inaugural event was a tremendous success and marked an exciting new chapter for Best Buddies at Cheyenne East. Throughout the 2025–2026 school year, the chapter grew to 45 Best Buddies members, demonstrating the enthusiasm and commitment of students who want to be part of a more inclusive school community. After such a strong first Friendship Walk, there is no doubt that Cheyenne East has created something special and we cannot wait to see where their student leaders take the chapter next.

The University of Wyoming also had an exciting year as the club continued rebuilding after returning to campus following a pause during COVID-19. The passion and dedication of its student leaders have been evident as they work to grow the club and bring it back to the vibrant community it once was. Throughout the year, the University of Wyoming hosted monthly club meetings, creating consistent opportunities for students to connect, build friendships, and experience the joy of Best Buddies together. One of the highlights of the year was a Flower Pot Decorating event, which quickly became a student favorite and provided a fun, creative way to bring members together as they wrapped up the school year.

Together, Cheyenne East High School and the University of Wyoming represent the exciting future of Best Buddies in Wyoming. From launching a brand-new Friendship Walk to rebuilding a college club, these chapters show what can happen when passionate student leaders are given the opportunity to turn inspiration into action.

Congratulations to Cheyenne East High School and the University of Wyoming on being named Wyoming’s 2025–2026 Outstanding Chapters of the Year! Your leadership and enthusiasm are helping create a stronger Best Buddies community across Wyoming, and we cannot wait to see what comes next.