The City of Valparaiso has sworn in a new class for the 2023-2024 Mayor’s Youth Council. “We’re excited to welcome our third group of students to the 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 Matt Murphy in introducing the new Council. “We welcome this new Council and thank them for 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. 19.
The first two youth council classes have culminated their year of learning with a Color Fun Run fundraiser to benefit Valpo Parks. “We learn a lot from our Youth Council members each year, making the program even better for the next year. I’m excited to get to know this new class. It’s been so gratifying to see graduates of the Youth Council go on and become more engaged in the community. We value their insights and contribution,” said Murphy.
The Mayor’s Youth Council for the City of Valparaiso, 2023-2024 includes:
Emily Cheuk
Duru Cukurtepe
Ian Dutz
Samantha Edwards
Rory Elinkowski
Milauyn Ford
Aubrie Graegin
Lauren Hefner
Maddux Horka
Jonathan Kolacki
Thomas Krueger
Olivia Krutz
Janet Alvarado-Mata
Aidan Monroe
Anthony Olivarez
Ethan Reynolds
Kaitlin Shideler
Isabella Slater
Raegan Smedley
Anthony Vedo
Olivia Weideman
Reagan Williams
To learn more about the Mayor’s Youth Council, visit the Mayor’s page at Valpo.us.