UTICA, N.Y. — The League of Women Voters of the Utica-Rome Metro Area selected two area students, Elizabeth Beck, an 11th grade student at Poland Central High School, and Jose Garcia, a senior at Thomas R. Proctor High School, to attend the Students Inside Albany Conference from Sunday, May 17, through Thursday, May 21, in Albany.
Beck and Garcia joined approximately 60 students from across New York State for the annual conference, which was designed to help students better understand New York State government, public policy, civic participation and the legislative process.
Beck, a scholar-athlete and mock trial participant, was selected for her strong interest in law, advocacy and public service. Her mock trial experience reflected her commitment to legal reasoning, public speaking and civic engagement.
Garcia, who will attend the University at Buffalo in the fall to study mechanical engineering, was recognized for his academic focus, leadership and commitment to mentoring fellow students.
During the conference, Garcia had the opportunity to shadow his legislator, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon of Assembly District 119. Students also participated in sessions focused on media, public policy, citizen advocacy and the role young people can play in representative democracy.
The Students Inside Albany Conference is sponsored by the League of Women Voters of New York State Education Foundation and gives selected high school students firsthand exposure to state government, public officials and the policymaking process.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan civic organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and supports voter education. For more information about the League of Women Voters of the Utica-Rome Metro Area, visit https://my.lwv.org/new-york/utica-rome-metropolitan-area.
