Washington D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.), a member of the USSYP Advisory Committee, has praised Ashland Michelle Ross of Satsuma High School and Edward Shujie Pang of Vestavia Hills High School for being chosen as Alabama’s representatives for the 2024 U.S. Senate Youth Program (USSYP). The program, known for its week-long educational experience and scholarships, aims to nurture high school students interested in public service by providing a comprehensive view of the Senate and the federal government.
During the 62nd annual Washington Week, scheduled for March 2-9, Ross and Pang will engage in meetings and briefings with congressional members, the President, a Supreme Court justice, and leaders of cabinet agencies. The program also includes a Senate reception where the students will meet and interact with their U.S. Senators.
Senator Britt expressed pride in the selection of Ashland and Edward, stating, “They represent the best and brightest of our state.” She looks forward to congratulating them personally in March, recognizing their achievements, and encouraging their pursuit of public service.
The USSYP, founded in 1962 and sponsored by the Senate, is fully funded and administered by The Hearst Foundations. Each delegate, including Ross and Pang, receives a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship for the college or university of their choice, with a focus on government and history coursework.
Ashland Ross, a senior at Satsuma High School, holds leadership roles in various organizations and plans to attend Georgetown University to major in public policy. Her long-term goal is to contribute to legislation that benefits her community and country, leveraging her background in public policy and subsequent law school education.
Edward Pang, a senior at Vestavia Hills High School, serves in leadership positions, excels academically, and plans to major in public affairs with a minor in economics. His aspiration is to advocate for critical issues affecting communities and bring about positive reform in policies related to budget, fiscal responsibility, and healthcare management.
