Governor seeks canidates for Governors Youth Advisory Council

(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Dave Heineman today along with members of the Governor’s Youth Advisory Council announced seven vacancies on the council with members from Districts 2 and 3 especially needed. The council is facilitated by Nebraska Children and Families Foundations. “I want to applaud the interest these young people have taken in civic issues,” Gov. Heineman said. “These students are the future leaders of our state. I want to encourage more young people to be involved in public service.” Members meet quarterly to review pending legislation, discuss issues impacting youth, learn about politics and share this information with their individual communities. Additionally, the council represents young people from their economic, cultural, geographic and familial backgrounds in discussions about important issues. This is done through regular meetings with the Governor and an annual luncheon with State Senators during the legislative session.  They provide input on topics including education, health, foster care, economic development and alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.  "As a youth delegate of the Nebraska Governor's Youth Advisory Council, I am privileged to have a voice in our state government,” said Justin Korth. “Meeting with Governor Heineman is a profound opportunity for us to represent the youth voice from across Nebraska. Being the future leaders of our state, this exceptional opportunity to meet with Governor Heineman is a very rewarding experience." The council is developing a video about the council and its impact. A series of videos are being developed that will highlight particular issues, legislative and political processes and other important topics to encourage their peers to engage civically. Created in 1993, the Governor’s Youth Advisory Council provides an opportunity for young people ages 14 – 19 to be explore the legislative process, the role of the executive branch and encourage their peers to be more civically involved. This council informs the governor on issues impacting Nebraska’s young people. Up to twenty-five youth can serve on the council with equal representation from each congressional district. Current members of the council are Brent Comstock, Auburn; Jeffrey Hornung, Davey; Jeffrey Wallman, Filley; Ashlee Ernst, Lincoln; Aya Hinz, Lincoln; Connor McDonald, Lincoln; Emilio Ramiez, Lincoln; Leah Abebe, Lincoln; Katherine Cole, Tilden; Akansha Jain, Omaha; Katherine Baxter, Omaha; Nimansha Jain, Omaha; Sujaytha Pakinikar, Omaha; Connor Russell, Curtis; Ashley Bykerk, Grand Island; Patrick Lowe, Kearney; Justin Korth, Randolph; and Morgan Tranmer, Wilber. Applications are available on the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation website at www.nebraskachildren.org or by calling 402-817-2003.