WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mike Johanns and Deb Fischer today announced the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) has begun accepting applications for the program’s 53rd annual Washington Week. The two selected Nebraska students will join 102 other delegates from across the country in Washington D.C., on March 7-14, 2015.
Fischer said, “This is a wonderful opportunity for Nebraska's students to learn firsthand more about the public policy making process. I encourage all students with a passion for public service to apply and take advantage of this unique Washington program.”
Johanns said, “The students applying for this program represent the height of academic achievement and dedication to service. All of these youth are future leaders. I wish them well in this process and the upcoming academic year.”
Each of the student delegates will receive a $5,000 undergraduate college scholarship, in addition to the all-expenses paid trip to the nation’s capital.
The students will visit Capitol Hill, the White House, the Pentagon, the State Department, the Supreme Court and other historic sites in Washington. The agenda routinely includes meetings with Senators, the President, Cabinet Secretaries, a Justice of the Supreme Court, senior members of the national media and other policy makers.
Delegates must be juniors or seniors and elected student officers for the 2014-2015 academic year and they must reside in the state where they attend school. Names of students selected will be formally announced mid-December. Interested students can receive applications, which are due October 3, from their high school principal or counselor. Completed applications can be submitted to Nebraska’s selection administrator:
Mr. Harris Payne
Social Studies Director
301 Centennial Mall South
Lincoln, NE 68509-4987
Ph. (402) 471-2449
harris.payne@nebraska.gov
The 2015 program brochure with detailed rules and selection process information is available HERE.
The USSYP was created by Senate Resolution 324 in 1962, “to increase young Americans’ understanding of the interrelationship of the three branches of government, the caliber and responsibilities of federally elected and appointed officials, and the vital importance of democratic decision making not only for America but for people around the world.” USSYP is sponsored by the Senate and fully funded by The Hearst Foundations — no government funds are utilized.
