Congresswoman Scholten Announces Her Inaugural Congressional Youth Advisory Council

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) announced her inaugural Congressional Youth Advisory Council (CYAC) for the 2026-2027 school year. 18 students were chosen from a competitive pool of applicants across West Michigan. The students will serve a one-year term, meeting five times over the course of the school year and advising the office on key issues facing their generation. 

“Young people bring an energy and thoughtfulness that shapes our political discourse in ways that can invigorate unique ideas. The policy we create in Washington impact not only their day-to-day lives right now, but also, critically, their future. These young people deserve a say in their representation as well, said Congresswoman Scholten. “This class of students embodies West Michigan through their work ethic, care for community, and commitment to public service.”

Throughout the academic year, members of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council participate in policy-focused sessions where student-led committees work together to identify and examine key issues facing their communities. They will work directly with Congresswoman Scholten and her team to turn their ideas into real, workable recommendations for her to consider. While each meeting focuses heavily on one main committee topic, the group also sets aside time to review other upcoming bills. This setup gives students a genuine chance to weigh in on federal legislation, share their perspectives, and make sure young voices have a direct line to Congress. 

Meeting one will be an introductory overview to cover the foundations of the program, set expectations, and get everyone ready for the year ahead. 

Meeting two will focus on economic policy, where the economy committee will take the lead, guiding a deep dive into the specific financial and economic issues the students want to focus on. 

Meeting three will focus on education policy and the education committee will take the floor to explore different facets of the education system and brainstorm potential solutions. 

Meeting four will focus on environmental policy. The environment committee will lead discussions on ecological issues and how federal policy can address them. 

Meeting five will be an opportunity for the various committees to present their research and policy proposals. Congresswoman Scholten will take the proposals into consideration and the students will be able to answer questions based on their research. 

“I’m honored to be part of Congresswoman Scholten’s inaugural Youth Advisory Council. This opportunity allows students like me to share their perspectives, learn more about public service, and contribute to conversations that affect our schools, communities, and future. I look forward to working with Congresswoman Scholten and other student leaders from across West Michigan to make a positive impact,” said Youth Council Member Patrick Latchana.

“I am deeply excited for this opportunity! It is extremely important to hear the voices of the youth, as they will be the next generation in government. Hillary Scholten’s Youth Advisory Council is a step towards making youth’s voices heard state and nationwide,” said Youth Council Member Emma Palmer.

This program reflects Congresswoman Scholten’s ongoing commitment to lifting up the next generation of West Michigan leaders and giving young people a seat at the table in the decisions that shape their future. Read more here.

###