Crapo, Risch Welcome Idaho Delegates For U.S. Senate Youth Program

Washington, D.C. - Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch Wednesday welcomed Idaho’s delegates to the 56th annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) that will be held March 3-10, 2018, in Washington, D.C.  Patricia Swenson of Jerome and Keegan Wolfe of Saint Anthony were chosen from students across Idaho to be part of the 104 student delegation who will attend the program’s annual Washington Week. 

Patricia Swenson currently attends Jerome High School where she has served in student government all four years of her study there and is currently senior class representative.  She also serves as president of the National Honor Society, and Young Politicians of Jerome.  Patricia is involved in other activities and sports including the swim and water polo teams and the speech team.  She plans to attend college and study health care administration, later pursuing a career as a physician’s assistant.

Keegan Wolfe is a senior at Madison High School in Rexburg where he has served previously as Student Body President and is currently the public relations specialist for the student body.  He is captain of the Madison High’s student debate team and is the Idaho state champion for impromptu speaking.  Keegan is an Eagle Scout and plans to serve a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before enrolling at Boise State University. 

“Inspired ideas often come from bright minds tackling challenges from a unique perspective,” 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.” 

“The bright young Idahoans who were selected to represent our state are very deserving of this distinction,” said Risch.  “Patricia’s and Keegen’s leadership at their respective high schools and in their communities is admirable and reflects the spirit of our great state. I’m proud of their hard work and look forward to welcoming them to Washington, D.C.” 

In addition to Patricia and Keegan, two alternate delegates have also been selected. They are Andrew Hilty of Nampa who attends Nampa Christian High School and Anna Holcomb of Payette, who attends Payette High School. 

During their week in the nation’s capital, Patricia and Keegan 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 of Washington’s famous museums. 

In addition to the experience in our nation’s capital, each of the delegates will receive a $10,000 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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