Crapo, Risch Announce Delegates for Senate Youth Program

Washington, D.C. - Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch today announced Idaho's delegates to the 54th annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) that will be held March 5-12, 2016, in Washington, D.C.  Ashlynn Hall of Twin Falls and Mark Jerome of Boise were chosen from students across Idaho to be part of the 104 student delegation who will attend the program's annual Washington Week.

Ashlynn Hall currently attends Canyon Ridge High School where she is the student body publicist and is involved in show choir, Business Professionals of America, and the National Honor Society.  She is also a recipient of the Bronze Congressional Award and currently serves as Magic Valley's Distinguished Young Woman.  Upon graduation, Ashlynn plans to attend Brigham Young University where she will study communication disorders and later, plans to pursue an advanced degree in occupational therapy.

Mark Jerome attends Borah High School where he is Student Body President, is a member of the National Honor Society and plays on both the football and basketball teams.  Additionally, Mark has been awarded the Borah Senator's Choice Award, was recognized as sophomore of the year and has received ALL-SIC Academic Honors on numerous occasions. In 2015, Mark was the Gem Boys State Governor.  Upon graduation, he plans to attend college and major in business and minor in political science, focusing on a career in the business field.

"Good ideas often come from bright minds viewing challenges through new eyes," said Crapo.  "As we confront complicated issues, inspiring our youth to become engaged citizens and leaders will bring lasting solutions that can strengthen and preserve our nation."

"I'm proud of these two young Idahoans, both of whom are very deserving of this distinction," said Risch. "Ashlynn and Mark have already accomplished much at their young ages by serving as leaders in their communities. I admire them and look forward to welcoming them to Washington, D.C., later this spring."

In addition to Ashlynn and Mark, two alternate delegates have also been selected. They are Olivia Ott, of Ketchum who attends Community School and Jonathan Pulsipher, of Rexburg who attends Madison Senior High School.

During their week in the nation's capital, Ashlynn and Mark will have the opportunity to attend meetings and briefings with Senators and congressional staff, the President, a Justice of the Supreme Court, leaders of cabinet agencies, an Ambassador to the United States and top members of the national media.  They will also tour many of the national monuments and several museums renowned to the District.

In addition to the experience in our nation's capital, each of the 104 delegates will receive a $5,000 college scholarship.  The scholarship and program week in Washington, D.C., are made possible through a grant from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation.  All transportation, meals and accommodations are provided.  No government funds are utilized for the program.

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