Senator Christopher
Coons
OF DELAWARE
DEMOCRATIC CO-CHAIR OF THE 60th ANNUAL UNITED STATES SENATE YOUTH PROGRAM
USSYP Democratic Co-Chair of Delaware Senator Chris Coons recognized the deep camaraderie in the class of 2022 and urged delegates to maintain these strong bonds, “A life of public service should not be a solitary journey,” he said. "Build a network of contemporaries — the connective tissue — who can support you in your dedication to service. This will allow you both to understand and respect people of different political backgrounds and views and help you to encourage and sustain each other.” The senator pointed to the students’ inherent generational expertise as a key factor to help unify the nation: “You are exactly the talented, capable, young Americans we need, who have been born and raised in the social media age. We need your help figuring out how to listen to each other, respect each other and come together to address existential threats, whether it is Russian aggression, climate change, the pandemic, the opioid crisis or creating better-quality jobs for all Americans.”
Remarking on unfolding world events, Senator Coons highlighted the importance of understanding history. Taking a first question about Ukraine, the Senator outlined Russian military history in the sieges of Grozny and Aleppo. “The spirit of the Ukrainian people has been incredible,” he observed, “and the Western world has come together faster, stronger and better than we have in response to any previous provocation.” He spoke of being on the ground in Lithuania, Poland and Germany the previous week, traveling with his Senate colleague Richard Durbin, who is of direct Lithuanian ancestry. Senator Coons was struck by the impact of America’s collective immigrant experience on our political leadership in the world: “It is remarkable the ways our nations are woven together by our history.”
Democratic 2022 Co-Chair Christopher A. Coons with delegates Seamus Oliver (DE), Saankya Suresh (DE), Gary Murray (DC) and Esees Komal (IL)
Republican 2022 Co-Chair Susan M. Collins (USSYP – ME 1971) with delegates Fallon Eggett (ME), Eleanore Allan-Rahill (ME), Pranav Palaniappan (MO) and Hana Looney-O’Goto (MD)
One of the program’s most distinguished alums, the first to become a United States Senator, and currently the most senior Republican woman in the Senate, Maine Senator Susan Collins (USSYP – ME 1971) addressed the 2022 delegates with passion for public service.
A noted moderate and consensus builder, she emphasized the importance of civil discourse and finding common ground, assuring that “We can deliver real results when we work together. The spirit of respectful debate guides us to an America that is more vibrant, just and prosperous for all.” She relayed a conversation discussing how polarization in America could ease if we could encourage “fanatical moderates,” those who felt strongly about finding solutions, instead of focusing only on being on the right or left side of the political spectrum. “Dedication to getting things done, to serving the American people and your constituents can only be realized, in my view, through bipartisanship, difficult though it is. Bipartisanship is a word that I am proud to be associated with, a word that encompasses standing up for what you believe in, upholding your principles while demonstrating a willingness to listen to others.”
Answering Oregon delegate Alejandra Lopez Nestor’s question about finding national unity, Senator Collins suggested, “It starts at the community level. We are all citizens of this country, and we want it to succeed; we want equal opportunity for everyone.” She shared advice she received from the groundbreaking Maine Senator Margaret Chase Smith, whom she shadowed at the USSYP in 1971: “Stand tall for what you believe in.” This is an attribute that home state delegate Eleanore Allan-Rahill felt Senator Collins embodies as “a Mainer through and through.”
Senator
Susan
Collins
OF MAINE
(USSYP – ME 1971)
REPUBLICAN CO-CHAIR OF THE 60th ANNUAL UNITED STATES SENATE YOUTH PROGRAM
Anthony
Kennedy
ASSOCIATE JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT of the United States
A Spirited Socratic Seminar from the Supreme Court
Before beginning his Socratic-style keynote discussion, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Anthony Kennedy offered the USSYP 2022 delegates a special greeting: “Welcome to the Supreme Court! It’s your court — the court that belongs to the people.” Justice Kennedy began with a discussion about the Preamble, stating, “The Preamble to the Constitution is a beautiful piece of writing,” noting its succinct but powerful structure. Elaborating on the tenet of protection, the Justice quoted from an opinion he wrote in a landmark flag-burning case: “This is protected speech. It is poignant but fundamental: The flag protects those who hold it in contempt.”
Justice Kennedy, who served for 30 years on the High Court, told the students that each generation must strive toward the Enlightenment goals of America’s founders. “Freedom is taught, and teaching is a conscious act. And so, we must teach, and we must learn about our democracy and our Constitution. It is a lifelong process.”
Delegates proved their mettle by quickly detailing elements that make the Constitution such a remarkable document: separation of powers, checks and balances, the ability to add amendments, among others. “You’re right on top of this,” Justice Kennedy assured with a warm smile.
In addition to academic prowess, the justice advocated for introspection, both for individuals and as a society. “We begin to know ourselves over time. Just as it takes time for us to see within ourselves our own faults, it takes time to see within our own society our own faults.” Justice Kennedy’s sensitivity, optimism and philosophic perspective were abundantly evident. In closing, he remarked that he holds the firm belief in humankind’s “capacity for aspirations, for hope, for love, for exploration and for self-fulfillment that is boundless.”
Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Anthony Kennedy with delegates Peter Banyas (MD), Salma Abdi (MN), Joleen Bakalova (CA) and Aditya Bhatt (SC)
PHOTO COURTESY OF C-SPAN
Senate Historian Dr. Betty Koed with delegates Mahir Rahman (LA), Braxton Zink (AK), Neve Rauscher (UT) and Will Rues (KS)
Senate Historian Betty Koed began her remarks by reading the Preamble to the Constitution: “‘We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union…’ I’ve long considered these to be perhaps the most important words in the Constitution. A more perfect union suggests a never-ending goal. The nation of tomorrow could be more perfect than the nation of today. With perseverance, we manage to edge forward.” Dr. Koed vividly brought to life three iconic senators who endeavored to do just that. She described Colorado Senator Edward Costigan’s herculean effort to pass anti-lynching legislation, Wisconsin Senator William Proxmire’s work on behalf of the anti-genocide treaty (requiring 3,000 floor speeches and 19 years) and Illinois Senator Carol Moseley Braun, whose impassioned stand caused the Senate to reconsider legislation regarding use of the Confederate flag.
In response to New Mexico delegate Micah Lightfoot’s question about the importance of teaching history in school, the Senate historian responded, “I think it is crucial that we all understand where we come from. We need to understand the diverse perspectives that come from the study of history.” She lauded a renewed focus on civics education taking place in many states. A deeper understanding of our national story and government processes bodes well for the future, Dr. Koed noted, because “Each of us has a role to play in our national quest for a more perfect union.”
Many Senate Historian addresses and Q and A sessions can be viewed on the USSYP website: ussenateyouth.org/washington_video.
Dr. Betty Koed
United States Senate Historian
Lessons in character, morality and perseverance from Senate Changemakers
General
Mark
Milley
CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF
KEEP THE CONSTITUTION AS YOUR TRUE NORTH
It is not every day that a high school student gets to introduce the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, but DODEA delegate Gabriel Stephenson was up to the task. “You have made clear your commitment to the Constitution, to the people of this country and to the pursuit of a more perfect union, and you embody the motto of the United States Army,” Stephenson said. General Mark A. Milley, speaking from the Pentagon, immediately reinforced that steadfast and compassionate spirit. “Remember that service matters,” General Milley said. “We are all in this together, and it’s important to serve others and serve causes that are greater than ourselves.” Addressing world events unfolding during Washington Week 2022, General Milley discussed the strategic protection afforded the U.S. by being bordered by two oceans. He stressed, however, that our national security is also crucially dependent upon an international rules-based order where nations work together to resolve conflict. “We want to exist in a world based on rules and laws that are compatible with our values,” he explained.
The general described his role as an adviser with a talented staff that analyzes information and develops courses of action for consideration. He aims every day to give the president “a complete and holistic, well-informed picture so that he can make his decisions.”
Despite the exigencies of his job during the largest conventional military attack since World War II, General Milley engaged at length with the students, taking many questions. He left the group with a mission: “Keep the Constitution as your true north, as your core essence for the very reason for which you serve. My life’s objective is to pass that Constitution off safe and sound to your generation so that you can carry it forward to the next.”
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark A. Milley with delegates Joshua Ching (HI), Rachel Gurevich (NJ), Megan Wills (DODEA) and Gabriel Stephenson (DODEA)
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg (USSYP – IN 2000) with delegates Nathan Mock (IN), Aditi Shankar (MA), Miles Wang (FL) and Anna Walter (WV)
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg (USSYP – IN 2000), the second program alum to run for president and the first to serve as cabinet secretary, was the much-anticipated final speaker of the program week. He began with stories from his time as a delegate when he got his first suit for the trip, made lifelong friends and was influenced by his Military Mentors. Substantial leadership roles in the private sector, military, local government and now federal government were the wellspring of his advice to the students. “Apply yourself to the utmost of your ability and find ways to grow your skills, especially skills you think are going to be useful or important in public service. Get to know people who care about the things you care about and test your ideas with those who might think differently from you.”
Delving into policy, Secretary Buttigieg described the Complete Streets initiative (safe and smart access for all people using roads) and the many aspects of the recently passed infrastructure-improvement legislation that involve his agency. “What I like to focus on are initiatives that are going to meet a lot of the different goals at once, or be very strong in at least one,“ he said regarding priorities. “Safety, climate, equity, economic growth and development, future-proofing — being ready for things that are changing in technology — those are the areas I focus on, and it's especially appealing when one initiative affects many priorities.” In closing, the former mayor of South Bend smiled and said, “I hope you will take the insights and the friendships that you developed across this week and carry them forward and should I run into you in Washington or anywhere else, please remind me that we met at the USSYP.”
Pete Buttigieg
U.S. Secretary of Transportation
(USSYP – IN 2000)
“It’s not about the job title. It’s about the difference you make.”
Cory Gardner
Former United States Senator of Colorado
(USSYP – CO 1993)
“Be firm in your principles and flexible in your tactics.”
Former Senator Cory Gardner, the first USSYP alum to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the second in history to serve as a U.S. senator, launched Washington Week 2022 by saying, “This week fundamentally transformed my life. It gave me opportunities that I otherwise would never have had and exposed me to new people and ideas that continue to make an impact on my life every day since then.” Reflecting on the state of the nation, he urged the students to pursue civil discourse. “Whether it's confirmation bias or the corners that we can live in, it's too easy to go to those corners of comfort and tune out all the voices that we disagree with. What a poor-off country we will be if we only listen to those we agree with.” Harkening back to former Colorado Senator Bill Armstrong’s approach of being “firm in the principles, flexible on the details,” Senator Gardner elaborated, “We are now holding our strategies and tactics to the same level of firmness as we hold our principles. If you want to accomplish something, the way to finding a solution must be equally important as the principle that you’re trying to achieve.”
In a lengthy Q and A, he highlighted one of his urgent legislative endeavors, supporting mental health: “This bill will allow an individual to call 988 if they need help because they're thinking of self-harm or they just are desperate and need somebody. It will include veterans care and LGBTQ youth, who have a higher propensity for suicide.” In closing, he advised warmly, “I hope you will all stay connected with each other, whether starting college, leaving college, launching your professional career or perhaps taking the first steps as a family. You can rely on each other because of this common experience and the ideas that you will share.”
Former Senator Cory Gardner (USSYP – CO 1993) with delegates Kayla Morrison (CO), Abigail Horwitz (WI), Eman Seyal (CT) and Frances Stroud (CO)
Former Chief Judge of the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals Robert Henry (USSYP – OK 1971) with delegates Jonathan Menzel (OK), Aishwarya Swamidurai (OK), Arnav Dharmagadda (KY) and Ra’mya Davis (DC)
“Never in the history of this program has it been more important for our youth to be involved in government,” began the esteemed Oklahoma alum of the 1971 United States Senate Youth Program. The former chief judge, university president and state attorney general of Oklahoma added, “We know that people must have trust and confidence in their elected representatives if our free society is to survive, and we know that people must consider politics an honorable vocation, demanding the very best talent this country can produce.” Judge Henry represents that high standard in public service. He counseled the delegates to read and understand our founding documents, especially the Preamble to the Constitution, which he described as the keystone to government’s role and those who would be its leaders.
Pledging that “We the people” will work together to continually improve is essential to America’s success, he stressed, noting that all delegates had received a pocket copy of the Constitution in their Welcome Bags. ”We are the oldest continual government in the world, all because of the magnificence of this document.” Judge Henry celebrated his favorite branch of government, the judiciary, and prepared delegates for an in-depth conversation with Justice Anthony Kennedy later in the day. The “least dangerous branch,” he declared, “provides for a rule of law,” which helps unify the nation. Acknowledging the special responsibilities of being a USSYP alum, he concluded, “I hope that you and I and all of us will be successful in promoting that more perfect union.”
Robert
Henry
Former Chief Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit
(USSYP – OK 1971)
Lessons on Democracy and the Constitution from An Esteemed Alum
Linda Thomas-Greenfield
United States Ambassador To The United Nations
America’s Ambassador to the World
Amid rapidly escalating world events, the U.S. Representative to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield took time to address the delegates and answer many questions. She discussed the just-begun Russian invasion of Ukraine, and relayed personal strategies for dealing with stressful situations. “Whether it’s giving a speech to young people like you, or standing in front of the Security Council, confronting the Russians, whatever it is, I always put my head in the space of wherever I will be after the speech. Because I know, that by then, I will have done it, and I will have done it well.” She gained confidence in this approach through her experience as one of the first students of color at Louisiana State University, then as a master’s student at the University of Wisconsin, and in her career as a young Foreign Service Officer.
In addition to always being prepared, she urged the students to take advantage of unexpected opportunities, “When I went to work in Africa for the first time, it was an extraordinary life-changer for me,” she said, urging the students to travel when possible. “I encourage you to get to know people from other countries. Although we have our differences, it is important that we understand each other to live in a world that is safe, secure, and one that allows us to be prosperous and happy.” Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield credited her mother with instilling the core values that have informed her work in diplomacy, public service and in life: “She taught me that no matter how bad things are, you can always share the thing that is most valuable to you, and that is your compassion. You can always be kind to people. You can even be kind to those who are unkind to you.” Referencing the war, she said, “When you work on refugee issues, it’s about bringing opportunities and hope to people, many of whom are hopeless. Look at the people who are escaping their homes in Ukraine, and what you see all over their faces, is hopelessness. But what you’re giving, is hope and opportunity and changing lives.”
U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield with delegates Saron Tefera (OH), Ryan Estus (RI), Cordelia Van der Veer (OH) and Elena Serpas (MA)
Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission Jessica Rosenworcel with delegates Maren Fagan (AL), Quinten Carney (ID), Clara Ragan (AL) and Sarayu Bethamcherla (MI)
The delegates took a deep dive into telecommunications policy with the Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission Jessica Rosenworcel, the first woman to be confirmed to lead the FCC since its founding in 1934.
An eloquent and passionate public servant, Ms. Rosenworcel described her role as having “a front-row seat at the digital revolution.” Ensuring equity in that revolution is a driving motivation. “There are two main components of the digital divide: access and affordability. During the pandemic we saw lots of kids who weren't able to get their education because they live in rural areas which lack internet access, or they're from homes where they can't consistently afford it. We have to fix this.” The chairwoman enumerated policy solutions she is working on as part of the recently passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and discussed the FCC’s role in network resiliency: “We work closely with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, which is a marrying of the minds where we oversee critical infrastructure, and they have insight into patterns to identify cyber vulnerabilities.” Global coordination is another area where the FCC takes an active lead, she noted, as part of the International Telecommunication Union: “Think of it like the U.N. for communications where we consider and decide matters together…We have to globally coordinate spectrum and satellite services because the airspace above us is much more functional for communications with global harmonization.” After numerous questions, Chairwoman Rosenworcel concluded, “It's gratifying to see that you're interested in public policy. It is a complicated business, but it is a real force for change, and a force for good.”
Jessica Rosenworcel
Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission
Communications Policy in the 21st Century
Vanita Gupta
United States Associate Attorney General
“Hope is a discipline;
it is a muscle you have to keep using.”
The inspiring words of the U.S. Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta resonated with the USSYP delegates long after Washington Week concluded. “I’m animated every day by a sense of hope for our country,” she assured. “I know it’s been an incredibly challenging two years, and I talk about this often, but I think of hope as a discipline. It’s a muscle that you have to keep using.” Such discipline, she said, will allow us to “envision a better time and a better way to empower communities that may be left out. We can live up to the ideals of our Constitution to form a more perfect union.”
Ms. Gupta gazed intently at the young faces before her. “Young people are the engine of change,” she encouraged. When the obstacles seem overwhelming, she urged optimism and resilience. “The only thing that has ever changed the path of this country have been young people and thoughtful people who have refused to give in to despair, even against the greatest of odds.” She described the arc of her own career as a civil and human-rights lawyer beginning with a case in Texas and moving to higher national positions in longstanding advocacy organizations and in government. “I am a believer in institutions,“ she said, “and the power of institutions to anchor our democracy,” but she highlighted that there are many avenues, whether local, state or national, to engage in a lifetime of public service and social justice. She commended the first steps delegates had taken: “You are already a part of a network of clearly intellectually curious, engaged citizens. I urge you to continue to be engaged and try to be true to yourselves. Find those paths that really give you a sense of happiness, where you feel like you’re contributing to your community.”
Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta with delegates Krupali Kumar (TX), Kenney Lam (IA), Mary Margaret Barbee (GA) and Hassan Looky (AZ)
INTERACTIVE
DIPLOMACY SIMULATION
The Suez Canal Crisis
National Museum of
American Diplomacy (NMAD),
U.S. Department of State
The USSYP Class of 2022 participated in a groundbreaking online educational exercise as part of Washington Week. After hearing from U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the students were led into an interactive diplomacy simulation of the Suez Canal Crisis of 1956, incorporating the geopolitical and economic forces at play during the height of the Cold War. Working in groups representing the country stake-holders, the delegates gained first-hand experience in the challenges of negotiation to avoid conflict, through the auspices of the National Museum of American Diplomacy at the Department of State.
Education Program Specialist Lauren Fischer of the National Museum of American Diplomacy with delegates Pristine Thai (FL), Selom Bediako (TN), George Cecil (ID) and Graze Enz (SD)
INTERACTIVE
DIPLOMACY SIMULATION
The Suez Canal Crisis
National Museum of
American Diplomacy (NMAD),
U.S. Department of State
CONTINUED
NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy Carmen Romero with delegates Eva Frazier (VT), Emily Adcock (MS), Ross Bodine (IL) and Iris Hsiang (VT)
A first in Washington Week history, the class of 2022 met with NATO's Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy Carmen Romero live from NATO headquarters in Brussels via Zoom. Drawing on her current work and prior roles in journalism covering conflict, she offered valuable perspective on how the 73-year-old transatlantic alliance preserves stability and promotes peace. Ms. Romero began by advocating agency on the students’ part in bolstering efforts against disinformation: “In today’s current security environment it is critically important that we increase our resilience against disinformation and hostile narratives. This is especially important for you because you are very young. We all must make an effort to differentiate what is truth, what is fact and what is fake.” She outlined NATO’s core mission: “NATO is a political, military organization, defensive in nature, not offensive. NATO is designed to protect peace and security for the almost one billion people living in our 30 member states.” Ms. Romero elaborated on the extremely serious military situation in Ukraine that is affecting the entire security architecture built at the end of the Second World War. She also relayed that the organization is preparing for its new Strategic Concept, to be unveiled at an upcoming summit in Madrid, that will set NATO’s strategy for the next 10 years. “Today, we live in an age of systematic competition. The balance of power is shifting, and Democracy and freedom are under heavy pressure,” she cautioned. In closing, Ms. Romero offered this inspiration: “You are amplifiers, you are influencers, and you are future leaders. Your role is very important to help Americans understand the importance of the United States being in NATO.”
Carmen Romero
NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy
Understanding NATO at a Critical Time
Major
General
David
Isaacson, USA
Chief of Staff, USCYBERCOM
Valuable and Timeless Advice From a Pentagon Leader
Major General David Isaacson, USA, Chief of Staff for U.S. Cyber Command, shared life and leadership advice that propelled him as a leader in one of the U.S. military’s 11 combatant commands. He began by giving an in-depth overview of his command’s mission to direct, synchronize and coordinate cyberspace planning and operations. He described his daily work and professional focus to “defend our nation against cyberattack,” underscoring that “prevention is the aim.” Describing what makes USCYBERCOM successful, he summarized, “It can really be conveyed in one word: partnerships.” This focus on teamwork echoes his template for success. “Be a part of a team; the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” he reminded. Secondly, he offered, “Play to your strengths, and manage and recognize talent. Surround yourself with talent and be your very best you.” Seeking mentors early is essential, he said, and be ready “when you have the opportunity to pay it forward.” Being self-aware and seeking self-improvement throughout his career served Major General Isaacson well and is a component of another essential asset he enumerated, becoming a lifelong learner. Lastly, he relayed, it is important to keep balance in mind. “The better balance you maintain as a holistic person, the better the longevity and quality of service you will be able to give to our nation.” Public service has both its privileges and responsibilities, the USCYBERCOM leader feels, adding “You don’t have to be in uniform to be serving.” There are many opportunities to work in service, he noted, and the impulse to serve is “driven by a passion of being something bigger than yourself. The concepts of teamwork and selflessness are central for that effort to be successful.”
USCYBERCOM Chief of Staff Major General David Isaacson, USA with delegates Anil Cacodcar (LA), Neil Sash (AR), Emma Kratcha (ND) and Cameron Reckard (WY)
Virtual Visit to
the White House
FEATURING USSYP ALUMS
USSYP alum Ali Zaidi, Deputy White House National Climate Advisor (USSYP – PA 2003) summed up the feelings shared by many gathered on the 2022 White House visit via Zoom: “If you're in the room with us today, there's something in you that gives you goosebumps when the National Anthem plays.” Mr. Zaidi spoke of the challenges and opportunities ahead for the upcoming generation. “We have a shot to get our climate stabilized, and what’s exciting is that in this incredible crisis, in all of this challenge, is embedded real opportunity, if we see it and if we seize it: to deliver environmental justice to places where it's never quite reached, to lift people into good-paying jobs that could help us build out the middle class and to boost America's economic and competitive advantage with our partners and allies around the world.” Showing his faith in the future, he said, “If I'm betting on anything, I'm betting on the young people who have blown open the sense of possibility here in Washington.” Highlighting the importance of public service, he recognized, “As someone who was born in Pakistan and grew up on the edge of the middle class in rural Pennsylvania, it strikes me that I've won the lottery lots and lots of times, and chances are you have as well. At some point, you'll have to pay it forward. That's the right thing to do.” Mr. Zaidi was unabashed in his zeal for public service, noting, “Good luck in your journey, delegates. Wherever it takes you, try to find opportunities for public service. Make that public service an optimistic one, a source of joy for you. Let it fulfill you, and fight for the folks who usually don't have a champion.”
Deputy White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi (USSYP – PA 2003) with delegates Chase Casey (MT) and Isaac Carreno (NC)
White House Visit
CONTINUED
YOUNG ALUMS IN KEY ROLES
Washington Week 2022 also featured interactive discussion with two young alums who are making their mark in the executive branch. During an animated discussion with the White House Press Office’s Michael Kikukawa (USSYP – HI 2013), the delegates were treated to the first-ever Washington Week Walk-and-Talk Behind-the-Scenes Zoom Tour of the West Wing, including a quick glimpse and greeting from Press office luminaries Karine Jean-Pierre, Jen Psaki and staff. He generously answered many delegate queries and shared his journey from a USSYP delegate to the hallways of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Senior Advisor to the Director of the White House Office on Science and Technology Policy Jenny Gao (USSYP – WA 2012) fielded many questions about the intersection of STEM issues and public policy, sharing her advice for excelling both academically and socially during college years, as well as finding opportunities in public service with a background in science and mathematics.
Michael Kikukawa (USSYP – HI 2013) of the White House Press office
Senior Advisor to the Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Jenny Gao (USSYP – WA 2012)
White House press officials greet the delegates — including the two pictured, Emmett O’Brien (SC) and Enjl Himoya (HI) — during an impromptu tour
Quotes From
Speakers
“Bipartisanship encompasses standing up for what you believe in and upholding your principles while demonstrating a willingness to listen to others, treat people with opposing views with civility and search for common ground. Bipartisanship requires the spirit of civility and mutual respect.”
Senator Susan Collins
(USSYP – ME 1971)
“To whom much is given, much is expected. As you pursue the opportunity of service, the work has to be its own reward. The idea of selflessness is absolutely essential. Occasionally, there is concern that this generation is more self-centered – I don’t think so. I think each and every one of you are an example of the extraordinary future that our nation has, and we should be all quite proud to be a part of it.”
USCYBERCOM Chief of Staff
Major General David Isaacson
“Individuals matter. Each of us has a role to play in our national quest for a more perfect union.”
Dr. Betty Koed
Senate Historian
“Have your compass set to what you care about most. Not the job you want to have, but the difference you want to make.”
Secretary of Transportation
Pete Buttigieg (USSYP – IN 2000)
“We've got to make sure that everyone has the bandwidth, data and the service they need to fully participate in modern life, in education, in commerce. We had naysayers in the 1930s when there was a great challenge to electrify the countryside. With broadband right now, we should reach 100 percent of us. Let's do something audacious and fix this.”
FCC Chairwoman
Jessica Rosenworcel
”We know that people must have trust and confidence in their elected representatives if our free society is to survive. We know that people must consider politics an honorable vocation, demanding the very best talent this country can produce.”
Former Chief Judge
Robert Henry
(USSYP – OK 1971)
“Keep the Constitution as your true north, your core essence, the very reason for which you serve. My life’s objective is to pass that Constitution off safe and sound to your generation so that you can carry it forward to the next.”
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
General Mark Milley
“Despair is a privilege. It is very easy to be on the outside, pointing fingers and criticizing, and a lot harder to be part of the solution. From slavery to Jim Crow, from legal segregation to the Civil Rights Era to where we are today, what has changed the path of this country have been the young people, and thoughtful individuals who have refused to give in to despair.”
U.S. Associate Attorney General
Vanita Gupta
“The problem with our discourse today is that we are now holding our strategies and tactics to the same level of commitment and firmness as we hold our principles. If the way you address a challenge or find a solution is equally important as the principle that you are trying to achieve, how will you ever find common ground and compromise?”
Former Senator
Cory Gardner
(USSYP – CO 1993)
“Freedom is taught, and teaching is a conscious act. So we must teach, and we must learn about our democracy and about our freedom and about our Constitution. It's a lifelong process.”
Justice Anthony Kennedy
“North America and Europe are standing together in NATO, in strategic solidarity. At this dangerous, complicated moment, no country and no continent can go it alone. NATO is more united, more determined and stronger than ever and will continue to fight not only to preserve our values, but also our way of life.”
NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy
Carmen Romero
“A life of public service should not be a solitary journey. Build a network of contemporaries – the connective tissue – who can support you in your dedication to service. This will allow you both to understand and respect people of different political backgrounds and views and help you to encourage and sustain each other.”
Senator Chris Coons
“If you're here today, there's something in you that gives you goosebumps when the National Anthem is played. You will all go on to many achievements, academic and professional, but I hope that you maintain a grasp of whatever it is that gives you goosebumps at the notion of public service. As someone who was born in Pakistan, who grew up on the edge of the middle class in rural Pennsylvania, it strikes me that I've won the lottery many times. If you're in this room, chances are you have as well. And, at some point, you'll have to pay it forward. That's the right thing to do.”
White House Deputy National
Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi
(USSYP – PA 2003)
“Diplomacy requires developing relationships. You can develop relationships with people who are your allies and friends as well as with people who are your adversaries. But you want to have that relationship because otherwise you cannot talk to them, and you want to be able to talk to your adversaries.”
U.S. Ambassador to the UN
Linda Thomas-Greenfield
Senator
Christopher
Coons
OF DELAWARE
Democratic 2022 Co-Chair Christopher A. Coons with delegates Seamus Oliver (DE), Saankya Suresh (DE), Gary Murray (DC) and Esees Komal (IL)
DEMOCRATIC CO-CHAIR OF THE 60th ANNUAL UNITED STATES SENATE YOUTH PROGRAM
USSYP Democratic Co-Chair of Delaware Senator Chris Coons recognized the deep camaraderie in the class of 2022 and urged delegates to maintain these strong bonds, “A life of public service should not be a solitary journey,” he said. "Build a network of contemporaries — the connective tissue — who can support you in your dedication to service. This will allow you both to understand and respect people of different political backgrounds and views and help you to encourage and sustain each other.” The senator pointed to the students’ inherent generational expertise as a key factor to help unify the nation: “You are exactly the talented, capable, young Americans we need, who have been born and raised in the social media age. We need your help figuring out how to listen to each other, respect each other and come together to address existential threats, whether it is Russian aggression, climate change, the pandemic, the opioid crisis or creating better-quality jobs for all Americans.”
Remarking on unfolding world events, Senator Coons highlighted the importance of understanding history. Taking a first question about Ukraine, the Senator outlined Russian military history in the sieges of Grozny and Aleppo. “The spirit of the Ukrainian people has been incredible,” he observed, “and the Western world has come together faster, stronger and better than we have in response to any previous provocation.” He spoke of being on the ground in Lithuania, Poland and Germany the previous week, traveling with his Senate colleague Richard Durbin, who is of direct Lithuanian ancestry. Senator Coons was struck by the impact of America’s collective immigrant experience on our political leadership in the world: “It is remarkable the ways our nations are woven together by our history.”
Senator
Susan
Collins
OF MAINE
(USSYP – ME 1971)
Republican 2022 Co-Chair Susan M. Collins (USSYP – ME 1971) with delegates Fallon Eggett (ME), Eleanore Allan-Rahill (ME), Pranav Palaniappan (MO) and Hana Looney-O’Goto (MD)
REPUBLICAN CO-CHAIR OF THE 60th ANNUAL UNITED STATES SENATE YOUTH PROGRAM
One of the program’s most distinguished alums, the first to become a United States Senator, and currently the most senior Republican woman in the Senate, Maine Senator Susan Collins (USSYP – ME 1971) addressed the 2022 delegates with passion for public service.
A noted moderate and consensus builder, she emphasized the importance of civil discourse and finding common ground, assuring that “We can deliver real results when we work together. The spirit of respectful debate guides us to an America that is more vibrant, just and prosperous for all.” She relayed a conversation discussing how polarization in America could ease if we could encourage “fanatical moderates,” those who felt strongly about finding solutions, instead of focusing only on being on the right or left side of the political spectrum. “Dedication to getting things done, to serving the American people and your constituents can only be realized, in my view, through bipartisanship, difficult though it is. Bipartisanship is a word that I am proud to be associated with, a word that encompasses standing up for what you believe in, upholding your principles while demonstrating a willingness to listen to others.”
Answering Oregon delegate Alejandra Lopez Nestor’s question about finding national unity, Senator Collins suggested, “It starts at the community level. We are all citizens of this country, and we want it to succeed; we want equal opportunity for everyone.” She shared advice she received from the groundbreaking Maine Senator Margaret Chase Smith, whom she shadowed at the USSYP in 1971: “Stand tall for what you believe in.” This is an attribute that home state delegate Eleanore Allan-Rahill felt Senator Collins embodies as “a Mainer through and through.”
Anthony
Kennedy
ASSOCIATE JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT of the United States
Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Anthony Kennedy with delegates Peter Banyas (MD), Salma Abdi (MN), Joleen Bakalova (CA) and Aditya Bhatt (SC)
PHOTO COURTESY OF C-SPAN
A Spirited Socratic Seminar from the Supreme Court
Before beginning his Socratic-style keynote discussion, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Anthony Kennedy offered the USSYP 2022 delegates a special greeting: “Welcome to the Supreme Court! It’s your court — the court that belongs to the people.” Justice Kennedy began with a discussion about the Preamble, stating, “The Preamble to the Constitution is a beautiful piece of writing,” noting its succinct but powerful structure. Elaborating on the tenet of protection, the Justice quoted from an opinion he wrote in a landmark flag-burning case: “This is protected speech. It is poignant but fundamental: The flag protects those who hold it in contempt.”
Justice Kennedy, who served for 30 years on the High Court, told the students that each generation must strive toward the Enlightenment goals of America’s founders. “Freedom is taught, and teaching is a conscious act. And so, we must teach, and we must learn about our democracy and our Constitution. It is a lifelong process.”
Delegates proved their mettle by quickly detailing elements that make the Constitution such a remarkable document: separation of powers, checks and balances, the ability to add amendments, among others. “You’re right on top of this,” Justice Kennedy assured with a warm smile.
In addition to academic prowess, the justice advocated for introspection, both for individuals and as a society. “We begin to know ourselves over time. Just as it takes time for us to see within ourselves our own faults, it takes time to see within our own society our own faults.” Justice Kennedy’s sensitivity, optimism and philosophic perspective were abundantly evident. In closing, he remarked that he holds the firm belief in humankind’s “capacity for aspirations, for hope, for love, for exploration and for self-fulfillment that is boundless.”
Dr. Betty
Koed
United States Senate Historian
Senate Historian Dr. Betty Koed with delegates Mahir Rahman (LA), Braxton Zink (AK), Neve Rauscher (UT) and Will Rues (KS)
Lessons in character, morality and perseverance from Senate Changemakers
Senate Historian Betty Koed began her remarks by reading the Preamble to the Constitution: “‘We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union…’ I’ve long considered these to be perhaps the most important words in the Constitution. A more perfect union suggests a never-ending goal. The nation of tomorrow could be more perfect than the nation of today. With perseverance, we manage to edge forward.” Dr. Koed vividly brought to life three iconic senators who endeavored to do just that. She described Colorado Senator Edward Costigan’s herculean effort to pass anti-lynching legislation, Wisconsin Senator William Proxmire’s work on behalf of the anti-genocide treaty (requiring 3,000 floor speeches and 19 years) and Illinois Senator Carol Moseley Braun, whose impassioned stand caused the Senate to reconsider legislation regarding use of the Confederate flag.
In response to New Mexico delegate Micah Lightfoot’s question about the importance of teaching history in school, the Senate historian responded, “I think it is crucial that we all understand where we come from. We need to understand the diverse perspectives that come from the study of history.” She lauded a renewed focus on civics education taking place in many states. A deeper understanding of our national story and government processes bodes well for the future, Dr. Koed noted, because “Each of us has a role to play in our national quest for a more perfect union.”
Many Senate Historian addresses and Q and A sessions can be viewed on the USSYP website: ussenateyouth.org/washington_video.
General
Mark
Milley
CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark A. Milley with delegates Joshua Ching (HI), Rachel Gurevich (NJ), Megan Wills (DODEA) and Gabriel Stephenson (DODEA)
KEEP THE CONSTITUTION AS YOUR TRUE NORTH
It is not every day that a high school student gets to introduce the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, but DODEA delegate Gabriel Stephenson was up to the task. “You have made clear your commitment to the Constitution, to the people of this country and to the pursuit of a more perfect union, and you embody the motto of the United States Army,” Stephenson said. General Mark A. Milley, speaking from the Pentagon, immediately reinforced that steadfast and compassionate spirit. “Remember that service matters,” General Milley said. “We are all in this together, and it’s important to serve others and serve causes that are greater than ourselves.” Addressing world events unfolding during Washington Week 2022, General Milley discussed the strategic protection afforded the U.S. by being bordered by two oceans. He stressed, however, that our national security is also crucially dependent upon an international rules-based order where nations work together to resolve conflict. “We want to exist in a world based on rules and laws that are compatible with our values,” he explained.
The general described his role as an adviser with a talented staff that analyzes information and develops courses of action for consideration. He aims every day to give the president “a complete and holistic, well-informed picture so that he can make his decisions.”
Despite the exigencies of his job during the largest conventional military attack since World War II, General Milley engaged at length with the students, taking many questions. He left the group with a mission: “Keep the Constitution as your true north, as your core essence for the very reason for which you serve. My life’s objective is to pass that Constitution off safe and sound to your generation so that you can carry it forward to the next.”
Pete
Buttigieg
U.S. Secretary of Transportation
(USSYP – IN 2000)
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg (USSYP – IN 2000) with delegates Nathan Mock (IN), Aditi Shankar (MA), Miles Wang (FL) and Anna Walter (WV)
“It’s not about the job title.
It’s about the difference you make.”
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg (USSYP – IN 2000), the second program alum to run for president and the first to serve as cabinet secretary, was the much-anticipated final speaker of the program week. He began with stories from his time as a delegate when he got his first suit for the trip, made lifelong friends and was influenced by his Military Mentors. Substantial leadership roles in the private sector, military, local government and now federal government were the wellspring of his advice to the students. “Apply yourself to the utmost of your ability and find ways to grow your skills, especially skills you think are going to be useful or important in public service. Get to know people who care about the things you care about and test your ideas with those who might think differently from you.”
Delving into policy, Secretary Buttigieg described the Complete Streets initiative (safe and smart access for all people using roads) and the many aspects of the recently passed infrastructure-improvement legislation that involve his agency. “What I like to focus on are initiatives that are going to meet a lot of the different goals at once, or be very strong in at least one,“ he said regarding priorities. “Safety, climate, equity, economic growth and development, future-proofing — being ready for things that are changing in technology — those are the areas I focus on, and it's especially appealing when one initiative affects many priorities.” In closing, the former mayor of South Bend smiled and said, “I hope you will take the insights and the friendships that you developed across this week and carry them forward and should I run into you in Washington or anywhere else, please remind me that we met at the USSYP.”
Cory
Gardner
Former United States Senator of Colorado
(USSYP – CO 1993)
Former Senator Cory Gardner (USSYP – CO 1993) with delegates Kayla Morrison (CO), Abigail Horwitz (WI), Eman Seyal (CT) and Frances Stroud (CO)
“Be firm in your principles and flexible in your tactics.”
Former Senator Cory Gardner, the first USSYP alum to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the second in history to serve as a U.S. senator, launched Washington Week 2022 by saying, “This week fundamentally transformed my life. It gave me opportunities that I otherwise would never have had and exposed me to new people and ideas that continue to make an impact on my life every day since then.” Reflecting on the state of the nation, he urged the students to pursue civil discourse. “Whether it's confirmation bias or the corners that we can live in, it's too easy to go to those corners of comfort and tune out all the voices that we disagree with. What a poor-off country we will be if we only listen to those we agree with.” Harkening back to former Colorado Senator Bill Armstrong’s approach of being “firm in the principles, flexible on the details,” Senator Gardner elaborated, “We are now holding our strategies and tactics to the same level of firmness as we hold our principles. If you want to accomplish something, the way to finding a solution must be equally important as the principle that you’re trying to achieve.”
In a lengthy Q and A, he highlighted one of his urgent legislative endeavors, supporting mental health: “This bill will allow an individual to call 988 if they need help because they're thinking of self-harm or they just are desperate and need somebody. It will include veterans care and LGBTQ youth, who have a higher propensity for suicide.” In closing, he advised warmly, “I hope you will all stay connected with each other, whether starting college, leaving college, launching your professional career or perhaps taking the first steps as a family. You can rely on each other because of this common experience and the ideas that you will share.”
Robert
Henry
Former Chief Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit
(USSYP – OK 1971)
Former Chief Judge of the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals Robert Henry (USSYP – OK 1971) with delegates Jonathan Menzel (OK), Aishwarya Swamidurai (OK), Arnav Dharmagadda (KY) and Ra’mya Davis (DC)
Lessons on Democracy and the Constitution from an Esteemed Alum
“Never in the history of this program has it been more important for our youth to be involved in government,” began the esteemed Oklahoma alum of the 1971 United States Senate Youth Program. The former chief judge, university president and state attorney general of Oklahoma added, “We know that people must have trust and confidence in their elected representatives if our free society is to survive, and we know that people must consider politics an honorable vocation, demanding the very best talent this country can produce.” Judge Henry represents that high standard in public service. He counseled the delegates to read and understand our founding documents, especially the Preamble to the Constitution, which he described as the keystone to government’s role and those who would be its leaders.
Pledging that “We the people” will work together to continually improve is essential to America’s success, he stressed, noting that all delegates had received a pocket copy of the Constitution in their Welcome Bags. ”We are the oldest continual government in the world, all because of the magnificence of this document.” Judge Henry celebrated his favorite branch of government, the judiciary, and prepared delegates for an in-depth conversation with Justice Anthony Kennedy later in the day. The “least dangerous branch,” he declared, “provides for a rule of law,” which helps unify the nation. Acknowledging the special responsibilities of being a USSYP alum, he concluded, “I hope that you and I and all of us will be successful in promoting that more perfect union.”
Linda
Thomas-Greenfield
United States Ambassador To The United Nations
U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield with delegates Saron Tefera (OH), Ryan Estus (RI), Cordelia Van der Veer (OH) and Elena Serpas (MA)
America’s Ambassador to the World
Amid rapidly escalating world events, the U.S. Representative to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield took time to address the delegates and answer many questions. She discussed the just-begun Russian invasion of Ukraine, and relayed personal strategies for dealing with stressful situations. “Whether it’s giving a speech to young people like you, or standing in front of the Security Council, confronting the Russians, whatever it is, I always put my head in the space of wherever I will be after the speech. Because I know, that by then, I will have done it, and I will have done it well.” She gained confidence in this approach through her experience as one of the first students of color at Louisiana State University, then as a master’s student at the University of Wisconsin, and in her career as a young Foreign Service Officer.
In addition to always being prepared, she urged the students to take advantage of unexpected opportunities, “When I went to work in Africa for the first time, it was an extraordinary life-changer for me,” she said, urging the students to travel when possible. “I encourage you to get to know people from other countries. Although we have our differences, it is important that we understand each other to live in a world that is safe, secure, and one that allows us to be prosperous and happy.” Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield credited her mother with instilling the core values that have informed her work in diplomacy, public service and in life: “She taught me that no matter how bad things are, you can always share the thing that is most valuable to you, and that is your compassion. You can always be kind to people. You can even be kind to those who are unkind to you.” Referencing the war, she said, “When you work on refugee issues, it’s about bringing opportunities and hope to people, many of whom are hopeless. Look at the people who are escaping their homes in Ukraine, and what you see all over their faces, is hopelessness. But what you’re giving, is hope and opportunity and changing lives.”
Jessica
Rosenworcel
Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission
Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission Jessica Rosenworcel with delegates Maren Fagan (AL), Quinten Carney (ID), Clara Ragan (AL) and Sarayu Bethamcherla (MI)
Communications Policy in the 21st Century
The delegates took a deep dive into telecommunications policy with the Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission Jessica Rosenworcel, the first woman to be confirmed to lead the FCC since its founding in 1934.
An eloquent and passionate public servant, Ms. Rosenworcel described her role as having “a front-row seat at the digital revolution.” Ensuring equity in that revolution is a driving motivation. “There are two main components of the digital divide: access and affordability. During the pandemic we saw lots of kids who weren't able to get their education because they live in rural areas which lack internet access, or they're from homes where they can't consistently afford it. We have to fix this.” The chairwoman enumerated policy solutions she is working on as part of the recently passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and discussed the FCC’s role in network resiliency: “We work closely with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, which is a marrying of the minds where we oversee critical infrastructure, and they have insight into patterns to identify cyber vulnerabilities.” Global coordination is another area where the FCC takes an active lead, she noted, as part of the International Telecommunication Union: “Think of it like the U.N. for communications where we consider and decide matters together…We have to globally coordinate spectrum and satellite services because the airspace above us is much more functional for communications with global harmonization.” After numerous questions, Chairwoman Rosenworcel concluded, “It's gratifying to see that you're interested in public policy. It is a complicated business, but it is a real force for change, and a force for good.”
Vanita
Gupta
United States Associate Attorney General
Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta with delegates Krupali Kumar (TX), Kenney Lam (IA), Mary Margaret Barbee (GA) and Hassan Looky (AZ)
“Hope is a discipline; it is a muscle you have to keep using.”
The inspiring words of the U.S. Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta resonated with the USSYP delegates long after Washington Week concluded. “I’m animated every day by a sense of hope for our country,” she assured. “I know it’s been an incredibly challenging two years, and I talk about this often, but I think of hope as a discipline. It’s a muscle that you have to keep using.” Such discipline, she said, will allow us to “envision a better time and a better way to empower communities that may be left out. We can live up to the ideals of our Constitution to form a more perfect union.”
Ms. Gupta gazed intently at the young faces before her. “Young people are the engine of change,” she encouraged. When the obstacles seem overwhelming, she urged optimism and resilience. “The only thing that has ever changed the path of this country have been young people and thoughtful people who have refused to give in to despair, even against the greatest of odds.” She described the arc of her own career as a civil and human-rights lawyer beginning with a case in Texas and moving to higher national positions in longstanding advocacy organizations and in government. “I am a believer in institutions,“ she said, “and the power of institutions to anchor our democracy,” but she highlighted that there are many avenues, whether local, state or national, to engage in a lifetime of public service and social justice. She commended the first steps delegates had taken: “You are already a part of a network of clearly intellectually curious, engaged citizens. I urge you to continue to be engaged and try to be true to yourselves. Find those paths that really give you a sense of happiness, where you feel like you’re contributing to your community.”
INTERACTIVE
DIPLOMACY SIMULATION
The Suez Canal Crisis
National Museum of
American Diplomacy (NMAD),
U.S. Department of State
Education Program Specialist Lauren Fischer of the National Museum of American Diplomacy with delegates Pristine Thai (FL), Selom Bediako (TN), George Cecil (ID) and Graze Enz (SD)
The USSYP Class of 2022 participated in a groundbreaking online educational exercise as part of Washington Week. After hearing from U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the students were led into an interactive diplomacy simulation of the Suez Canal Crisis of 1956, incorporating the geopolitical and economic forces at play during the height of the Cold War. Working in groups representing the country stake-holders, the delegates gained first-hand experience in the challenges of negotiation to avoid conflict, through the auspices of the National Museum of American Diplomacy at the Department of State.
Carmen
Romero
NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy
NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy Carmen Romero with delegates Eva Frazier (VT), Emily Adcock (MS), Ross Bodine (IL) and Iris Hsiang (VT)
Understanding NATO at a Critical Time
A first in Washington Week history, the class of 2022 met with NATO's Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy Carmen Romero live from NATO headquarters in Brussels via Zoom. Drawing on her current work and prior roles in journalism covering conflict, she offered valuable perspective on how the 73-year-old transatlantic alliance preserves stability and promotes peace. Ms. Romero began by advocating agency on the students’ part in bolstering efforts against disinformation: “In today’s current security environment it is critically important that we increase our resilience against disinformation and hostile narratives. This is especially important for you because you are very young. We all must make an effort to differentiate what is truth, what is fact and what is fake.” She outlined NATO’s core mission: “NATO is a political, military organization, defensive in nature, not offensive. NATO is designed to protect peace and security for the almost one billion people living in our 30 member states.” Ms. Romero elaborated on the extremely serious military situation in Ukraine that is affecting the entire security architecture built at the end of the Second World War. She also relayed that the organization is preparing for its new Strategic Concept, to be unveiled at an upcoming summit in Madrid, that will set NATO’s strategy for the next 10 years. “Today, we live in an age of systematic competition. The balance of power is shifting, and Democracy and freedom are under heavy pressure,” she cautioned. In closing, Ms. Romero offered this inspiration: “You are amplifiers, you are influencers, and you are future leaders. Your role is very important to help Americans understand the importance of the United States being in NATO.”
Major
General
David
Isaacson, USA
Chief of Staff, USCYBERCOM
USCYBERCOM Chief of Staff Major General David Isaacson, USA with delegates Anil Cacodcar (LA), Neil Sash (AR), Emma Kratcha (ND) and Cameron Reckard (WY)
Valuable and Timeless Advice From a Pentagon Leader
Major General David Isaacson, USA, Chief of Staff for U.S. Cyber Command, shared life and leadership advice that propelled him as a leader in one of the U.S. military’s 11 combatant commands. He began by giving an in-depth overview of his command’s mission to direct, synchronize and coordinate cyberspace planning and operations. He described his daily work and professional focus to “defend our nation against cyberattack,” underscoring that “prevention is the aim.” Describing what makes USCYBERCOM successful, he summarized, “It can really be conveyed in one word: partnerships.” This focus on teamwork echoes his template for success. “Be a part of a team; the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” he reminded. Secondly, he offered, “Play to your strengths, and manage and recognize talent. Surround yourself with talent and be your very best you.” Seeking mentors early is essential, he said, and be ready “when you have the opportunity to pay it forward.” Being self-aware and seeking self-improvement throughout his career served Major General Isaacson well and is a component of another essential asset he enumerated, becoming a lifelong learner. Lastly, he relayed, it is important to keep balance in mind. “The better balance you maintain as a holistic person, the better the longevity and quality of service you will be able to give to our nation.” Public service has both its privileges and responsibilities, the USCYBERCOM leader feels, adding “You don’t have to be in uniform to be serving.” There are many opportunities to work in service, he noted, and the impulse to serve is “driven by a passion of being something bigger than yourself. The concepts of teamwork and selflessness are central for that effort to be successful.”
Virtual Visit to
the White House
FEATURING USSYP ALUMS
Deputy White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi (USSYP – PA 2003) with delegates Chase Casey (MT) and Isaac Carreno (NC)
USSYP alum Ali Zaidi, Deputy White House National Climate Advisor (USSYP – PA 2003) summed up the feelings shared by many gathered on the 2022 White House visit via Zoom: “If you're in the room with us today, there's something in you that gives you goosebumps when the National Anthem plays.” Mr. Zaidi spoke of the challenges and opportunities ahead for the upcoming generation. “We have a shot to get our climate stabilized, and what’s exciting is that in this incredible crisis, in all of this challenge, is embedded real opportunity, if we see it and if we seize it: to deliver environmental justice to places where it's never quite reached, to lift people into good-paying jobs that could help us build out the middle class and to boost America's economic and competitive advantage with our partners and allies around the world.” Showing his faith in the future, he said, “If I'm betting on anything, I'm betting on the young people who have blown open the sense of possibility here in Washington.” Highlighting the importance of public service, he recognized, “As someone who was born in Pakistan and grew up on the edge of the middle class in rural Pennsylvania, it strikes me that I've won the lottery lots and lots of times, and chances are you have as well. At some point, you'll have to pay it forward. That's the right thing to do.” Mr. Zaidi was unabashed in his zeal for public service, noting, “Good luck in your journey, delegates. Wherever it takes you, try to find opportunities for public service. Make that public service an optimistic one, a source of joy for you. Let it fulfill you, and fight for the folks who usually don't have a champion.”
Young Alums
in the Key
White House Roles
FEATURING USSYP ALUMS
Michael Kikukawa (USSYP – HI 2013) of the White House Press office
Senior Advisor to the Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Jenny Gao (USSYP – WA 2012)
White House press officials greet the delegates — including the two pictured, Emmett O’Brien (SC) and Enjl Himoya (HI) — during an impromptu tour
Washington Week 2022 also featured interactive discussion with two young alums who are making their mark in the executive branch. During an animated discussion with the White House Press Office’s Michael Kikukawa (USSYP – HI 2013), the delegates were treated to the first-ever Washington Week Walk-and-Talk Behind-the-Scenes Zoom Tour of the West Wing, including a quick glimpse and greeting from Press office luminaries Karine Jean-Pierre, Jen Psaki and staff. He generously answered many delegate queries and shared his journey from a USSYP delegate to the hallways of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Senior Advisor to the Director of the White House Office on Science and Technology Policy Jenny Gao (USSYP – WA 2012) fielded many questions about the intersection of STEM issues and public policy, sharing her advice for excelling both academically and socially during college years, as well as finding opportunities in public service with a background in science and mathematics.