Ridgewood Teen Will Meet With Washington D.C. Officials

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — Ridgewood High School senior Grace Kim will be one of two delegates from New Jersey to a national youth program, a district spokesperson said this week.

In March, she and two delegates from each of 50 states will meet with federal officials — possibly even the president — in Washington, D.C. during a week of federal programs.

Out of five finalists for New Jersey's delegation to the 64th annual United States Senate Youth Program, Kim was one of only two who were selected.

The program recognizes student leaders with a demonstrated commitment to public service.

"We are incredibly proud of Grace's achievement in being named a finalist for this prestigious program," said RHS Principal Jeff Nyhuis. "Her selection reflects not only her academic excellence but also her demonstrated leadership and commitment to serving her community. Grace exemplifies the qualities we strive to develop in all our students."

The United States Senate Youth Program, established in 1962 by Senate resolution, is a competitive, merit-based program that brings together student leaders for a week-long educational experience in Washington, D.C.

Two students from each state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity are selected to participate in Washington Week each year.

“I’m honored to have been selected as a finalist for such an incredible opportunity,” said Kim. “I’m grateful for the support of my teachers and school—especially Mr. Nyhuis, Mrs. Lauria, and Mrs. Kirtane—who guided me throughout the application and interview process.”

Grace will head to D.C. from March 7-14.

She will meet with directors of federal agencies, hear major policy addresses from senators and other leaders, and possibly participate in meetings with the president and Supreme Court.

And each delegate receives a $10,000 college scholarship for undergraduate studies, "with encouragement to pursue coursework in history and political science," the school said.

“Grace is extremely hard-working, empathetic, ambitious and optimistic,” said U.S. History teacher Medha Kirtane. “These are all qualities paramount for a young person who is seeking a life of public service in order to sustain our fragile democracy.”