Connecticut’s Youth of the Year Honored at State Capitol
Youth of the Year from across the state meet Governor, Lawmakers
Amongst the hallowed halls of Connecticut’s state capitol on Wednesday there was a sign of a bright future for the Constitution State. The state Youth of the Year candidates were honored by leaders and lawmakers for their accomplishments. The young people included Connecticut Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford’s own, Emani L. and her peers from Clubs across the state.
The group began the day by meeting with Secretary of the State, Stephanie Thomas. The secretary spoke about the importance of civics and voting while answering questions from the Youth of the Year.
Next, they were introduced on the floor of the Connecticut State Senate. Senator James Maroney read a proclamation before they gathered for a photo on the senate floor. Sen. Tony Hwang took a moment to network with Emani and a few of her fellow Youth of the Year, including taking a photo in his senate seat.
After the Senate, the group was off to the Governor’s office where they met with Governor Ned Lamont and posed for a photo op. The Governor took some time to hear about the Youth of the Year program from the young leaders themselves and to discuss the importance of after school programs, including Boys & Girls Clubs.
With the State House in session, the Youth of the Year had the opportunity to observe as lawmakers debated a contentious bill. They interacted with representatives while lawmakers discussed laws that could shape Connecticut’s future.
The evening concluded with a reception at the Samuel S. Gray, Jr. Boys & Girls Club at Asylum Hill where Connecticut’s leaders of tomorrow could remark on a day watching today’s leaders in action.
