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Valparaiso Swears In Mayor’s Youth Council

Valparaiso Swears In Mayor’s Youth Council

The City of Valparaiso has sworn in a new class for the 2025-2026 Mayor’s Youth Council. “We’re excited to welcome these outstanding students to the fifth annual Mayor’s Youth Council. The Council is an opportunity for students to learn about city government, develop leadership skills and encourage civic engagement,” said Mayor Jon Costas in introducing the new Council. 

The Mayor’s Youth Council was introduced in 2021 with support from Valparaiso High School, inviting 11th graders to apply to participate. The council meets monthly, learning from elected and appointed officials, participating in volunteer opportunities, and cultivating leadership skills, beginning with a Youth Retreat on Aug. 16. 

The first four youth council classes have culminated their year of learning by helping to host a Color Fun Run fundraiser to benefit Valpo Parks. “We look forward to empowering these young leaders to serve and help shape the future of Valparaiso,” said Costas. 

The Mayor’s Youth Council for the City of Valparaiso, 2025-2026 includes:

  • Lyla Adams
  • Naia Nikitaras
  • Kuo Bloom
  • Caroline Patton
  • Samantha Braggs
  • Bryce Rafferty
  • Owen Cheuk
  • Dionne Ralph
  • Abby Chien
  • Brenda Maria SanJuan
  • Emma Cochran
  • Avary Schwarzkopf
  • Sloane Connors
  • Allison Shikany
  • Eavan Daly
  • Opal Smith
  • Isabel Ecklund-Baker
  • Elizabeth Szevery
  • Amber Johnson
  • Alexis Tharp
  • Glori Liu
  • Lauren Wallace
  • Lorelei Murphy
  • Aidan Wyatt

To learn more about the Mayor’s Youth Council, visit the Mayor’s page at Valpo.us.