About the Program
The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) administers the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) for the State of Oregon. The U.S. Senate Youth Program is an annual scholarship competition funded by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation and endorsed by the U.S. Senate. Each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity select two high school juniors or seniors to participate in the program.
All high school juniors and seniors must be nominated by their high school principal or designated school official in order to apply for the program. Nominated students must be active in elected or appointed leadership positions that relate to government, public affairs, education and/or community service.
This year, the delegates will each receive a $10,000 college scholarship and attend an all-expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C., on March 6-13, 2027.
Oregon Delegates 64th Annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP)
The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) has selected two outstanding Oregon high school students, Ms. Isabella Luciana Baldisseri of Woodburn High School and Mr. Zev Gallagher Wacks of South Eugene High School, to represent the state during the 64th annual USSYP Washington Week from March 7-14, 2026. They will join 104 student leaders across the nation for an intensive week-long study of the federal government, meeting with Senators, the President, a Supreme Court Justice, and other high-level officials. Each delegate will also receive a $10,000 college scholarship to support their academic pursuirts in government, history, and public affairs.
Isabella Baldiserri, Student Body President, has demonstrated leadership as District Governor of the Pacific Northwest Key Club and through her work with the City of Woodburn Parks and Recreation Board. She has also conducted research at Oregon Health and Science University and contributed to literary publications.
Zev Gallagher Wacks, Student Body Vice President, has championed environmental justic, helped pass Oregon's climate education bill, and served on multiple youth councils. He is also active in voter registration efforts and leads various school and community organizations.
Alternate delegates are Ms. Emma Johnson of West Linn High School and Mr. Ethan Smith of Grant High School.
For inquiries, contact USSYP@hearstfdn.org
Application and Process Requirements
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Student Application
- Resume
- Cover letter
- Student Video Essay Directions Document (speech instructions with video upload link)
- Process statement from the school
Contact
Please email ode.socialscience@ode.oregon.gov if you have any questions.