Ten students from the River Towns have been accepted to New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins’ prestigious Youth Advisory Council. Those selected are:
- Sleepy Hollow High School students Marley DeFilippis, Niva Pandya, Jacob Saltzman and Dylan Smith
- Irvington High School students Owen Liu and Kmari Thompson
- Hackley School student Beniamino Iaderosa
- The Masters School student Emily Kasoff
- Briarcliff High School student Zahra Choudhri
- Caileigh Coffey from Tarrytown who attends the Thornton-Donovan School
The Youth Advisory Council, now in its fifth year, is composed of civic-minded high school students from across the 35th Senate District. This year’s YAC comprises 51 students from across the district.
“The students of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and investing time and effort in their development is an investment in our future,” said Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins. “Each year, I am inspired by the passion and commitment of the young people in our district. I look forward to working with this talented group as they gain insight into the issues that matter most to them and make a meaningful impact in our communities.”
The Youth Advisory Council is a unique opportunity for high school students to engage in civic leadership, community service, and policy discussions with their peers and local leaders. Participants meet throughout the year to discuss pressing social and policy issues, engage with guest speakers, and collaborate on service projects that address community needs. The program empowers students to develop leadership skills and a deeper understanding of government and public service.
The 2025 Youth Advisory Council will meet monthly, with sessions focusing on topics such as government and public policy, social justice, environmental sustainability, and mental health awareness. Participants will also have opportunities to volunteer with local organizations, advocate for legislative initiatives, and develop service projects that benefit their communities.
