The City of Valparaiso has sworn in a new class for the 2024-2025 Mayor’s Youth Council. “We’re looking forward to getting to know this fourth group of students participating in the annual Mayor’s Youth Council. The Council is an opportunity for students to learn about city government, develop leadership skills and encourage civic engagement,” said Mayor Jon Costas in introducing the new Council. “We welcome this new Council and encourage their interest in their community.”
The Mayor’s Youth Council was introduced in 2021 with support from Valparaiso High School, inviting 11th graders to apply to participate. The council meets monthly, learning from elected and appointed officials, participating in volunteer opportunities, and cultivating leadership skills, beginning with a Youth Retreat on Aug. 17.
The first three youth council classes have culminated their year of learning with a Color Fun Run fundraiser to benefit Valpo Parks. “Each year we learn from our Youth Council members and value their insights. I’m excited to get to know this new class from Day 1,” said Costas.
The Mayor’s Youth Council for the City of Valparaiso, 2024-2025 includes:
Lena Allison
Aiden Andrews
Grace Carlson
Garrett Connors
Madeleine Ehrhardt
Parker Frailey
Fatima Gallegos
Grace Griffith
Dakota Hildebrand
Jersey Hinten
Sophia Ho
Kellan Hosek
Chloe Hosking
Zoe Jackson
Maura Lazar
Mia Muniz
Bryston Pemberton
Nicholas Ralph
Victor Rans
Camden Rasmussen
Mitchell Sterling
Julia Sut
Elizabeth Vatthauer
To learn more about the Mayor’s Youth Council, visit the Mayor’s page at Valpo.us.