U.S. Senate Youth Program

Student Senate Logo

The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP), established in 1962 by U.S. Senate Resolution, is a unique educational experience for outstanding high school students.

The 63rd annual USSYP Washington Week was held March 3–7, 2025 — a comprehensive public service, leadership, and education experience including speakers from the three branches of government and the national media. Each delegate received a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship in the name of the United States Senate.

Read the national press release announcing the 2026 program

Senator Susan Collins with delegates Emmett Appel and Sam Drummey

Senator Angus King with delegates Emmett Appel and Sam Drummey

Eligibility Requirements

Maine delegates are nominated by their principal and must meet the following requirements:

  1. Permanent U.S. resident with a parent or guardian who is a legal resident of Maine.
  2. Junior or senior attending a Maine high school through graduation in 2026.
  3. Interested in and participating in leadership, public service, and government-related activities.
  4. Able to attend the entire 2026 Washington Week — March 7–14, 2026.
  5. Approved by their high school principal as the only nominee from their school.
  6. Elected or appointed to a qualifying leadership post for the current school year, including:
    • Member or officer of student council, student senate, or equivalent student government
    • Class officer — president, vice president, secretary, or treasurer
    • Student representative on a district-, regional-, or state-level civic or educational organization

Application Process — 2025–26 School Year

Timeline
  • Early September: Information and instructions communicated to Maine educators and administrators. Each high school building principal may nominate only one eligible student.
  • October 10 (11:59 PM): Deadline for completed applications emailed to Beth Lambert, Maine USSYP Coordinator — beth.lambert@maine.gov. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • No later than October 24: Up to 10 finalists notified of advancement to the final round.
  • Early November: Finalists convene for a final competition with the selection committee, hosted by the Margaret Chase Smith Library.
  • December 1: Deadline for the Hearst Foundation to be notified of Maine's two delegates and two alternates.
  • January: Two delegates and two alternates notified and announced.
Application Materials

Maine's USSYP Delegates

Past Winners

Congratulations to all of Maine's past delegates! Where available, links lead to their reflections in their own words.