Rochester Hills swears in 2025–26 government youth council; members recap volunteer year

Seventeen students were sworn in as members of the Rochester Hills Government Youth Council on Aug. 11 during a ceremony at Rochester Hills City Hall. Clerk Scott administered the oath as Council and city officials joined the youth council and their families for the ceremony.

Brennan Diehl, who identified himself as a rising junior at Stoney Creek High School and the youth council representative to the City Council, said the council’s 2025–26 term begins Sept. 1 and the orientation for new and returning members is scheduled for Aug. 15. Diehl and youth council members described community service projects from the past year, including volunteer support at city events, donations to families in need and a cultural fair that organizers said drew more than 400 attendees.

Eliza Pizzuti, the youth council chair, and Yuna Wu, the secretary, presented the year‑in‑review video that highlighted the group’s work with the fire department open house, the Pumpkin Festival at Van Hoosen Farm, “Wet n’ Wild” summer programs and a “social reset” mental‑health panel at the public library. “We couldn’t do what we do without them,” a youth council member said, referring to the city staff and council members who support the program.

The council recognized several graduating seniors who are headed to college, and the mayor and councilmembers thanked the youth council for its participation in civic events and civic outreach. Officials said the program helps engage students in local government work and provides support for city communications and events.

The youth council leaders said they welcome community participation in upcoming events and encouraged residents to follow the city’s announcements for volunteer opportunities and the youth orientation on Aug. 15.