Rockhurst is excited to announce that Andrew Puthumana '24 was selected as one of two nominees in the state of Missouri for the prestigious U.S. Senate Youth Program!

This program was created by Senate Resolution 324 in 1962 as stated in Senate testimony from that year, "to increase young Americans' understanding of the interrelationship of the three branches of government, the caliber and responsibilities of federally elected and appointed officials, and the vital importance of democratic decision making not only for America but for people around the world." This extremely competitive merit-based program brings two high school juniors or seniors from every state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity, to Washington, D.C., for an intensive week-long study of the federal government and its leaders.

After an application process involving essays, review of transcript, and a thorough interview with the MO Department of Education in Jefferson City where Andrew was asked about his co-curriculars and current events, he was selected among numerous finalists across the state to attend this program. During a week-long fully-paid trip to D.C., student delegates will hear major policy addresses by senators, cabinet members, officials from the Departments of State and Defense and directors of other federal agencies, as well as usually participate in meetings with the president and a justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

In addition, Andrew will receive a $10,000 scholarship to the college of his choosing.