Clarksville's young leaders capped off their term with a final flourish this Monday, celebrating another year of civic engagement and leadership development through the Mayor's Youth Council (MYC). The gathering, held at Upstairs on Strawberry Alley, was marked by the announcement of a new executive board, including Chairperson Caleb Lane, Vice Chairperson Jillian Smart, and Communications Coordinator Tyler Soberano, as reported by the City of Clarksville's official website.
The event not only memorialized the achievements of the past year but also set the stage for the future, recognizing a diverse group of high school students dedicated to tackling local issues, such as social justice, food and housing, and public health. In a statement obtained by the City of Clarksville, Mayor Joe Pitts lauded the MYC's contributions, "One of our responsibilities is to nurture our future leaders, and our Mayor's Youth Council has been a great forum for leadership development. We chose the students based not just on scholarship but potential and passion to serve. The Class of 2024-25 has been exceptional.”
The MYC serves as a platform for youth to enhance their leadership skills and engage with city government, meeting monthly to collaborate and focus on specific community concerns. Students interested in joining the 2025-2026 MYC have until tomorrow to submit their applications, which require a minimum 2.75 GPA and two references, including one from an educational professional.
A Selection Committee will review the applications, looking for candidates who demonstrate an eagerness to learn about city governance, community issues, commitment to personal growth, and leadership potential, the details of which can be found within the city's announcement. Applicants will be notified of their status through email.
The outgoing members, including students from Northwest High School and Rossview High School, among others, have set a precedent of engagement and community service that the incoming council will aim to uphold in the coming year.
