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Youth

Alabama's Bright Future in Public Service: Senator Britt Commends USSYP Representatives

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

U.S. Senator Katie Britt proudly commended high school students Ella Ryan Duus and Stanley Jerome Stoutamire, Jr., who were selected as Alabama's United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) representatives for 2023. These exceptional students recently attended Washington Week, deepening their understanding of the federal government through meetings with congressional members, the president, a Supreme Court justice, and cabinet agency leaders. As part of the program, they received a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship and will continue their studies in government and history. Senator Britt expressed pride in the students' accomplishments and commitment to public service, acknowledging their bright futures in public service.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ella Ryan Duus, president of the Student Government Association at New Century Technology High School, was selected as one of Alabama's USSYP representatives for 2023. She is a National Merit Semifinalist, a two-time national qualifier in Congressional debate, and a RISE Global Winner.
  • Stanley Jerome Stoutamire, Jr., treasurer of the Student Government Association at John Carroll Catholic High School, was also selected as a USSYP representative. He serves as a student ambassador, a 2022 Alabama 4-H state ambassador, and a 2022 Alabama delegate to 4-H Citizenship Washington Focus.
  • The USSYP is an intensive week-long educational experience and scholarship for outstanding high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in public service.
  • The program provides students with the opportunity to attend meetings and briefings with congressional members, the president, a Supreme Court justice, and leaders of cabinet agencies.
  • Students also met and conversed with their U.S. Senators during a reception in the historic Kennedy Caucus Room.
  • The USSYP is sponsored and supported by the Senate and fully funded and administered by The Hearst Foundations.
  • The program has been in place for over 59 years, with 104 student delegates selected annually to participate in the program.
  • Ella Duus plans to enroll in a Bachelor's and Master's program in public policy and computer science, aiming to seek hands-on experience in the technology industry before entering a public service career field.
  • Stanley Stoutamire, Jr., plans to attend college to pursue a degree in the medical field, with a goal of bridging communication barriers between healthcare providers and the government.

Statistics:

  • 104 students were selected as USSYP representatives for the program.
  • The program has been in place for over 59 years.
  • Students receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship as part of the program.
  • The Hearst Foundations sponsor and support the program.
  • Ella Duus has been recognized as a National Merit Semifinalist, a two-time national qualifier in Congressional debate, and a RISE Global Winner.
  • Stanley Stoutamire, Jr., has been recognized as a National Honor Society member, a National Merit Commended Scholar, and an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction.

Sources:

  • Alabama Senator Katie Britt's statement
  • U.S. Senate Youth Program (USSYP)
  • The Hearst Foundations
  • S. Res. 324 (1962)

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