WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) announced the selection of two Nebraska students to the 54^th annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). Sean Lynch II of Omaha and Paige Wergin of Aurora were chosen by Nebraska Commissioner of Education Matthew Blomstedt following nominations by their teachers and principals. They will to join 104 students from across the country for an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., the week of March 5-12, 2016. The trip will be sponsored by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation, which will also provide a $5,000 scholarship to each delegate.

Senators Fischer and Sasse released the following statement:

“We are proud to congratulate these outstanding Nebraska students who have demonstrated an enduring commitment to their schools and local communities. Sean and Paige represent the future of Nebraska and our nation. We look forward to welcoming them to the U.S. Senate this spring.”

Sean Lynch II attends Skutt Catholic High School in Omaha. He serves as the inaugural president of the National English Honor Society, which promotes literary events at Skutt Catholic and in the broader community. Throughout high school, he has focused on mock trial and forensics, writing, and playing the violin. Sean is aiming to pursue a career in writing, and he is also considering becoming a civil rights lawyer.

Paige Wergin is a student at Aurora High School, where she has served as a representative on the school’s student council for each of the past four years. Additionally, she is president of the Aurora chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America, treasurer of the local chapter of the National Honor Society, and the drum major for the marching band. Outside of school, she is active in her church, 4-H, and the Aurora High School Leadership Academy. She also serves as an elementary environmental education camp peer leader. Paige plans to attend a four-year college. She is interested in pursuing a double major in English and communications, as well as a minor in Spanish.

The delegates will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., for the program’s annual “Washington Week” in March. There, they will attend briefings and meet with senators and congressional staff. Additionally, the delegates will tour the U.S. Capitol, U.S. Supreme Court building, and the Pentagon. They will also tour historic landmarks and various Smithsonian museums. The program is funded by the Hearst Foundation, which underwrites all USSYP expenses.

Click here to view the 2016 program brochure, which contains detailed rules and selection process information.

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