My Fall Youth Advisory Council is one of my favorite events of the year, and I’m excited to welcome another group of high school students on Monday, November 9, 2026! I encourage parents and teachers across the 37th District to sign up their students to join us.
We’ll meet at Sauk Valley Community College, 173 IL-2, Dixon, IL 61021, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Check-in begins at 9 a.m., with the event starting at 9:30 a.m. Speakers include Sauk Valley Community College President Dr. Jon Mandrell as well as Mary Oros, a Market President for Sauk Valley Bank and a local government council member.
There’s always a lot of energy in the room when students get together to share their ideas and tackle issues that matter to them. The Youth Advisory Council gives them a chance to meet students from schools across the district to learn more about state government and talk directly with their peers and my team about their communities.
Last year, more than 40 students from a dozen schools joined us and developed their own legislative proposals to address issues they cared about. I was impressed by their creativity and their willingness to work through tough questions together.
Students don’t need a background in government to participate. Curiosity and a willingness to join the conversation are a great place to start.
If you’re a parent or teacher, please contact my office to learn more and sign up your students. I can’t wait to hear this year’s ideas!