Sponsored by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation, the United States Senate Youth Program each year chooses two student leaders from each state to spend an educational week in Washington, D.C., experiencing their national government in action. The student delegates meet with Senators, cabinet members, directors of federal agencies, even Supreme Court justices, and often, the President.
When I was chosen to participate in 1971, I had never flown on an airplane, been to Washington, or met a U.S. Senator, but I already had a strong interest in public service. Both of my parents were active serving in community, state, and non-profit organizations. And I was president of the Student Council at Caribou High School.
This foundation of public service was greatly reinforced by my experience as a Youth Senate delegate. One of the highlights of Washington Week is always the opportunity to meet with Senators from one's home state. I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet with a true giant of the Senate, the great Lady from Maine, Senator Margaret Chase Smith. She was first woman to serve in both the House and the Senate, the first woman to serve on the Armed Services Committee, and the first woman to have her name entered into nomination for President by a major party.
Senator Smith was a legend, and I was so excited about meeting her. Our meeting lasted nearly two hours. We discussed many important issues; she answered my many questions, but what I remember most was her telling me always to stand tall for what I believed, citing her courageous speech against Senator Joseph McCarthy.
Little did I know at the time, that one day my fellow Mainers would elect me to represent them in the U.S. Senate. Today, I am so proud to hold the seat once held by Senator Smith. I am also honored to be the first former Senate Youth Program delegate who has gone on to serve in the U.S. Senate.
Recently, the Senate Youth Program announced that Karl Douin of Hollis and Paul Elish of Presque Isle have been selected to participate next month in the 48th Annual program. Karl is class president at Bonny Eagle High School in Standish. He is an active member of the soccer, tennis, and golf clubs, as well as the key club and school newspaper. In his spare time he enjoys movies. Paul is class treasurer at Presque Isle High School. He is a talented musician who participates in jazz band, jazz choir, and accompanies the school play on the piano. His athletic endeavors include track and field, soccer and skiing. Paul is also on the debate team, the math team, and in the Spanish club. In his spare time he bikes and reads classic literature.
I congratulate these two outstanding young people and I guarantee that they will see a side of the federal government that too often gets lost in news reports that focus on conflict. Although Senators come from different parties and different parts of the country, they are united by a dedication to serving our nation.
All of the students who participate in this year's program will be impressed, as I was 39 years ago, by the importance of getting involved, of serving the public. They will learn that their commitment to scholarship, leadership, and community service will take them anywhere they want to go.
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