Plano Youth Leadership began in 1995. The idea for the program was introduced to Plano from Volusia County, Florida by Dr. Jim Surratt, former Plano ISD Superintendent and Carol Greisdorf.  The original committee members were active Leadership Plano alumni:

Judy Broadwell
Mano Mahedava
Mary Anne Seale
André Davidson
Mary Matia
Lois Seibert
Rhonda Hostetter
John Shockey
Gail Wine

Mary Anne Seale researched the possibilities and determined that the program would best suit 10th grade students. John Shockey completed the original application for 501(c)(3) status, which was granted in August 1996. John Roach reconfirmed the status in July 2000. In May 2001, Plano Youth Leadership applied for new 501(c)(3) status. Through the work generously donated by Duncan Webb, this status was received.

The charter class was during the 1995-96 school year under the direction of André Davidson. Twenty-four students participated.

The PYL board was originally led by a position entitled Chairman. In 2001, the bylaws were revised creating the positions of president, president-elect, and past president.  This chang ensured that the program would have continuity of leadership.  Board Chairs / Presidents have been:

André Davidson, 1995-1996
André Davidson, 1996-1997
June Andringa, 1997-1998
Linda Madon, 1998-1999
Sue Bond, 1999-2000
Laurelle Moffett, 2000-2001
Jane Wyen, 2001-2002
Don Wendell, 2002-2003
Sharon Goldblatt, 2003-2004
Tony Vea, 2004-2005
Steve Miller, 2005-2006
Dr. Susan Fletcher, 2006-2007

In 2003, the board added youth advisory members to the board. Members of the outgoing class elect two members to serve on the board for two years.  Beginning with the 2006-2007 year, second year board advisors have voting rights as board members.