We are thrilled to announce that Landen Coursey, a senior at Alma High School, has been chosen as an Arkansas delegate for the 2025 William Randolph Hearst Foundation United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP).
Established by Senate Resolution 324 in 1962, the USSYP aims to enhance young Americans' understanding of the interconnectedness of the three branches of government, the roles and responsibilities of federally elected and appointed officials, and the critical significance of democratic decision-making, both in America and globally.
This highly competitive merit-based program selects two high school juniors and seniors from each state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity to participate in an intensive week-long study of the federal government and its leaders in Washington, D.C. Students are nominated and chosen through a rigorous process managed by state departments of education.
Each selected student receives a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship in the name of the United States Senate, encouraging them to pursue studies in history, government, and public affairs. Additionally, military officers, who are selected through the Office of the Secretary of Defense, serve as elite chaperones and mentors for the delegates throughout the week, representing a longstanding partnership between a national youth program and the Department of Defense.
Landen will have the privilege of attending the 63rd annual Washington Week, scheduled for March 1-8, 2025. During this week-long program focused on education, leadership, and public service, student delegates will have the opportunity to meet their U.S. senators and other prominent government officials in Washington, D.C.
Landen, we are incredibly excited for you and this amazing opportunity! Congratulations!