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Maryland Youth Advisory Council

Maryland Youth Advisory Council Logo

Background

The Maryland Youth Advisory Council was established through the State legislature (Chapter 559, Acts of 2008, Chapter 69, Acts of 2009, and Chapter 620, Acts of 2016) in order to ensure that Maryland youth are given the opportunity to provide feedback and recommendations regarding public policies and programs that affect their future and to take a leadership role in creating meaningful change.

Council members are appointed by the:

  • Governor of Maryland;
  • President of the Maryland Senate;
  • Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates;
  • Governor’s Office for Children appoints council members nominated by the:
    – Maryland Association of Student Councils,
    – University System of Maryland Student Council,
    – Maryland Higher Education Commission Student Advisory Council, and
    – Association of Local Management Boards

Mission

As a coalition of diverse young advocates and leaders from across the State, the Maryland Youth Advisory Council addresses relevant issues by influencing legislation, spreading public awareness and serving as a liaison between youth and policymakers.

Vision

The Maryland Youth Advisory Council strives to be an effective voice that:

  • Incites change for the betterment of Maryland youth,
  • Ensures equal opportunity for all youth regardless of background or circumstance,
  • Initiates political conversations with youth,
  • Educates youth on political issues, and
  • Is respected by legislators and other stakeholders on youth issues

    Apply to Join the Council

    Council members must be 14-22 years of age (as of September 1, 2021 for those applying for the 2021-2022 cycle). Members must serve a two-year term (September 1st – August 31st).

    Current Officers

    • Chair: Ian Herd, Charles County
    • Vice-chair: Marvin Li, Wicomico County
    • Secretary: Maggie Harkins, Wicomico County
    • Legislative Committee Chair: Maya Matava, Wicomico County
    • Public Awareness Committee Chair: Nina Bundy, Howard County

     

    2020-2021 Meeting Schedule

    For the 2020-2021 year, meetings will be held virtually unless otherwise noted.
    All meetings are open to the public. If you plan to attend a meeting, please notify Christina Drushel Williams no later than the Monday prior to the meeting.

    September 12, 2020 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    October 10, 2020 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    November 21, 2020 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    December 12, 2020 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    January 16, 2021 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    February 20, 2021 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    March 13, 2021 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    April 10, 2021 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    May 18, 2021 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

    FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
    Christina Drushel Williams, Senior Policy Analyst, at christina.drushel@maryland.gov or 410.697.9242.

    View Maryland Youth Advisory Council Reports