The William Floyd High School Youth and Government program recently achieved commendable success at the 89th annual New York State YMCA Youth and Government conference in Albany. The event, held in late March, saw participation from more than 750 student-delegates across New York State, who engaged in mock governance activities.
The William Floyd student-delegates were recognized for their efforts and achievements. Notably, six students were elected as statewide officers for next year’s conference. These include Lily Quinn as Speaker of Assembly Freedom, Joyce Chen as Senate Pro-Tempore for Senate Freedom, Jibran Akaloo as Deputy Pro-Tempore for Senate Liberty, Erin Chen as Deputy Pro-Tempore for Assembly Liberty, Violet Yau as Attorney General, and Muhammad Saad as Comptroller.
Each legislative branch of government had two versions during this conference: Assembly Liberty and Assembly Freedom, as well as Senate Liberty and Senate Freedom. This arrangement allowed for broader participation and representation among the students.
The newly elected officers will carry on the responsibilities from this year’s officials, such as Olivia Phillips, who held the position of Governor, and Aisha Barrie as Senate Pro-Tempore for Senate Liberty, among others.
Several awards were granted to the participants. Jasraj Minhas was named the Best Debater in Assembly Liberty, while Sofia Ariza and Lily Quinn received the award for Best Debaters in Assembly Freedom. Additional accolades were given for Best Bill in both Senate Liberty and Senate Freedom categories.
The conference also provided national opportunities. Select students, including Dua Ali, Sarah Foley, and Olivia Phillips, were chosen to attend the Conference on National Affairs in Boone, North Carolina. Other students, such as Kayla Bundick and Alice Chen, were selected for the National Judicial Competition in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Co-advisors Robert Feeney and Alyssa Tepper led the student-delegates in preparation for this successful conference. Both have expressed their pride in the students’ hard work and accomplishments. Feeney, who has been guiding the program since 1985, is recognized for mentoring students who have gone on to hold significant positions in government and public policy.
The program continues to provide valuable experiences to its participants, fostering skills and interests in governance and public affairs.