Board of Education honors Senate choice
Daniel Johnson, center front, receives praise and honor from the Walker County Board of Education for being named one of two delegates to represent the State of Georgia at the 2012 United States Senate Youth Program. Johnson was selected through an interview process that highlighted his outstanding academic accomplishments, civic commitment and leadership skills. Board of Education members are (from left) James A. Smith, Susan Wells, Mike Carruth, Superintendent Craig Davoulas and Phyllis Hunter.
At the December business meeting, the Walker County Board of Education presented a certificate of Recognition for outstanding accomplishments to Daniel Johnson, a junior at Ridgeland High School. Johnson was recently selected one of two delegates to represent the State of Georgia at the 2012 United States Senate Youth Program in Washington, DC.
The focus of the United States Senate Youth Program, established in 1962 by U.S. Senate Resolution, is education, leadership and public service. During the 50th Anniversary program in March, two student leaders from each state will spend a week experiencing their national government in action.
Student delegates will hear major policy addresses by senators, cabinet members, officials from federal departments and directors of other federal agencies, as well as participate in a meeting with a justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
The mission of the United States Senate Youth Program is to provide an opportunity for selected students to gain an in-depth view of the Senate and the federal government overall as well as a deeper understanding of the interrelationship of the legislative, judicial and executive branches. The program provides a foundation of knowledge and encouragement for those considering a future of public service on the local, state or national level.
State representatives are selected through a very competitive process beginning with a recommendation from a principal or teacher. To qualify, students must hold student body office or another elected or appointed position in their communities and show academic interest and aptitude in government, history and politics.
Johnson is a two-year captain of the football team and captain of the baseball team at Ridgeland. He is a 2011 participant in the Governor’s Honors Program and a Governor’s Honors Ambassador. He has also been elected junior class president and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) president. He is a Huddle Leader for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and serves on the Ridgeland Renaissance Board. Johnson is a member of the National Honor Society and a student in Ridgeland’s Honors Academy.
Johnson was selected 9th Congressional District representative and succeeded through a rigorous interview process against twelve candidates from other congressional districts to become one of Georgia’s two state delegates.
“We are very proud of Daniel and his interest in public service at such a young age. He has developed an impressive resume of accomplishments and has a bright future ahead,” said Board member Mike Carruth. Johnson credited his success to the many opportunities afforded students at Ridgeland High School and the dedicated staff that mentor future leaders.