OHS junior named to 2023 U.S. Senate Youth Program

December 24, 2022 | 12:08 am

Updated December 23, 2022 | 6:13 pm

David Daniel | Photo submitted

Owensboro High School junior David Daniel has been selected as one of only two students to represent Kentucky as a delegate to the United States Senate Youth Program.

Daniel said he has always been drawn to the ideals of politics, education, leadership, and public service.

“These values are at the forefront of the program’s mission, and they align perfectly with my own passions and goals,” he said. “As the current junior class president of Owensboro High School, I have had the opportunity to develop my leadership skills and make a positive impact on my community. I am excited to further these efforts through the program and make lasting connections with like-minded individuals who share my commitment to excellence and service.”

As a U.S. Senate Youth Program attendee, Daniel will attend Washington Week March 4-11. The program agenda routinely includes student meetings with senators, the president, Cabinet secretaries, a justice of the Supreme Court, senior members of the national media and other key policymakers. Each delegate will receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship with encouragement to continue coursework in history, government and public affairs.

Daniel said he is looking forward to meeting more than 100 of the country’s brightest leaders and innovators, making strong, diverse connections. Additionally, he said he looks forward to meeting some of the politicians who help make the country turn.

“I look forward to absorbing this educational experience, to hopefully come home a better thinker, leader, and contributor to my hometown,” he said. “Representing Owensboro, as well as Kentucky all together, at the highest stage of politics is beyond an honor for me.”

Kentucky Education Commissioner Jason E. Glass said the U.S. Senate Youth Program creates experiences that engage, inspire and unlock leadership potential.

“I congratulate these students on their selection for this opportunity and I know they will emerge from this unique experience well-positioned to become even more active citizens in their communities, our state and the nation,” he said.

In addition to exceptional leadership abilities and a strong commitment to volunteer work, the student delegates rank academically in the top 1% of their states among high school juniors and seniors.

After high school, Daniel’s dream is to attend Yale University, but he said he has also considered the University of Alabama, if he receives the National Merit Scholarship next year.

“In college I hope to get my bachelor’s in computer science, master’s in business, and then go to law school,” he said. “After school I would like to be a lawyer specializing in cases dealing with technology such as intellectual property law, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and more. Additionally, I hope to begin pursuing political leadership roles as soon as I am cemented in my career.”

December 24, 2022 | 12:08 am

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