Youth Advisory Council
Youth Advisory Council Overview
Congresswoman McClellan's Youth Advisory Council (YAC) offers a platform for high school students in VA-04 to actively engage with pressing societal issues such as climate change, criminal justice reform, and voting rights. By offering recommendations for legislation, members of the council can play a role in shaping policy at the national level.
Open to 9th through 12th graders residing or attending school in Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District, the council ensures diverse representation by comprising 25 members (max) from various high schools across the district.
The Youth Advisory Council is scheduled to convene eight times, with monthly meetings conducted via Zoom, commencing in October and concluding in May. These gatherings will entail discussions led by the council members concerning current legislative proposals, with votes cast to determine whether to advise the Congresswoman to support, oppose, or amend a bill.
Additionally, members will enjoy exclusive opportunities to connect with D.C. legislative staff, gaining valuable insights into the legislative process and deepening their understanding of governance. Meetings will be held on Mondays from 5:30 PM-7:30 PM.
Additionally, the council offers students a unique chance to engage directly with Congresswoman McClellan. This includes the opportunity to present a bill to her at the final Youth Advisory Council meeting, which resembles a student town hall. This culminating event provides a platform for students to showcase their advocacy efforts and directly share their perspectives with their elected representative.
Youth Advisory Council Goals
Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan is dedicated to empowering young leaders by providing an opportunity in which they can have a platform for civic-engagement, leadership devolvement, and communication with their federal representatives. With that, cultivating a generation of informed, perseverant, and motivated citizens who are equipped to influence and inspire change in their communities.
Youth Advisory Council Application Information & Relevant Links
All applicants must complete an application form, which requires students to provide a consent form, resume, and three application essays. The link to the comprehensive application form can be found here:
Application Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeoIaP2nUDsyoS-k5-ZOO-6qWU1whmcXc_DbYK9I7SifLcNqQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=103334863813798339884
Youth Advisory Council Deadlines
Friday, September 19, 2025 - Youth Advisory Council applications close
Friday, October 3, 2025 - Youth Advisory Council acceptance notifications
Friday, October 7, 2025 - Google Form for student leadership positions elections due to Maryn
Youth Advisory Council Proposed Timeline
These session dates may be subject to change. Accepted applicants should regularly check Congresswoman McClellan's website for updated information. Any changes to the schedule will also be directly communicated to accepted applicant by Congresswoman McClellan's staff.
Monday, October 13, 2025 - 1st meeting
Monday, November 10, 2025 - 2nd meeting
Monday, December 8, 2025 - 3rd meeting
Monday, January 12, 2026 - 4th meeting
Monday, February 9, 2026 - 5th meeting
Monday, March 16, 2026 - 6th meeting
Monday, April 6, 2026 - 7th meeting
May 2026, TBD - 8th meeting (in-person event with Rep. McClellan)