Student speaker urges support for Youth in Government; senator cites program cost

Binyam Dunn, a senior at the University School of Nashville, told the Senate he was grateful for Tennessee’s Youth in Government program and said it helped him find his voice and draft legislation aimed at supporting adoptees and those in foster care. “Youth in government has brought me so much joy and it’s given me the chance to see how change is made and to envision myself creating that legislation,” Dunn said.

Senator Brent Rose (speaking for the sponsors) thanked members who have contributed and asked others to check their email for sponsor requests. Rose said the program costs “about a $145,000 to put this program on,” and described the sponsor-your-seat campaign that helps students who otherwise could not afford to attend. The remarks were delivered during the Senate’s recognition of Youth in Government participants and local sponsors.

The recognition included brief remarks from program organizers and a request for members to encourage private sponsorship; Senator Rose and others noted the program’s role in preparing future civic leaders. The chamber acknowledged the students and speakers before returning to legislative business.