KU News Release

LAWRENCE — The Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas will host 60 high school seniors selected from across Kansas to participate in the Youth Civic Leadership Institute.

The institute begins Wednesday, July 14, and ends Friday, July 16. It is designed to foster appreciation and involvement in public service. Students stay overnight in a KU residence hall.

“We offer the Youth Civic Leadership Institute because it is in our nation’s best interest for our youth to become familiar with our system of government and also explore the variety of opportunities for public service and the potential for developing their leadership,” said Barbara Ballard, director of the Youth Civic Leadership Institute and a state representative from Lawrence’s 44th district. “These young men and women are the future of our nation and we are very pleased to host them.”

The program focuses on civic engagement and practicing leadership skills. The students work in groups to discuss issues that affect them in their schools and communities and to present solutions. The students also will visit the state Capitol to meet with Kansas government leaders.

The Dole Institute began the Youth Civic Leadership Institute in 2006 and provides the program at no charge. Students are nominated by their high school administrators to attend the institute, and participants are selected by a committee.

“Within their high schools and communities, these seniors have demonstrated a commitment to civic engagement and an interest in public service. These students are Kansas’ finest,” said Bill Lacy, director of the Dole Institute.

The students participating in this year’s Youth Civic Leadership Institute are listed below by school and hometown.