JACKSON — Secretary of State Michael Watson welcomed the first class of the newly created student ambassador program in Jackson on Tuesday, Aug. 9.
Students and parents participated in various sessions throughout the day with Watson and Secretary of State representatives at the Mississippi Capitol.
“Our first session with the inaugural class of Student Ambassadors was a tremendous success,” Watson said. “We are thrilled to have such an active group of young leaders engaged in state government and the elections process. Through this program, we hope to offer an inside look at elections in Mississippi, how state government works, an overview of different career fields, and ultimately serve as mentors to tomorrow’s leaders.”
Students received an overview of the Secretary of State’s Office, elections in Mississippi including volunteer training, and careers in conservation. They also visited with Watson and participated in an in-depth tour of the Capitol.
Parents in attendance had the opportunity to visit with Watson as well as tour the Capitol and Governor’s Mansion.
Ambassadors will return in January for the second summit geared toward the study of Mississippi’s legislative process. They will receive training on how to successfully organize and facilitate a voter registration drive on their school campus during the spring semester.
Jane Strawderman, a senior at Starkville High School, was one of the 56 students from 44 schools in 28 counties across all four congressional districts chosen for the program. The new program is designed to equip high school seniors with the knowledge and resources to engage as leaders within their schools and communities.
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