WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today congratulated Zachary Duperry of Portland and Carolyn Liziewski of Gray on their selection as Maine’s delegates to the 52^nd Annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). Zachary and Carolyn will join 104 other students from across the country in spending a week in the nation’s capital where they will have an opportunity to study the American political process first-hand.

“I have the honor and privilege of being the first delegate to the U.S. Senate Youth Program to have been elected to the U.S. Senate,” said Senator Collins. “My commitment to public service was reinforced as a senior in high school when I was chosen as a delegate and traveled to Washington and met Senator Margaret Chase Smith, the first woman in history to be elected to both the House and the Senate. I am pleased that Zachary and Carolyn have been chosen to participate in this worthwhile program and look forward to meeting with them while they are in Washington, D.C.”

“I’m pleased to congratulate Zachary and Carolyn on being selected as this year’s Maine delegates to the United States Senate Youth Program,” said Senator King. “This tremendous honor is a reflection of their leadership, commitment to public service, and determination to help build a better America. I look forward to meeting them later this March.”

BACKGROUND: The USSYP, founded in 1962, is fully funded by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation with the goal of raising awareness among young Americans about role of the federal government and the importance of our democratic process. During their week in Washington, the students will visit Capitol Hill, the White House, the Pentagon, the State Department, and the Supreme Court. They will also meet with Senators, cabinet officials, and other government leaders. Delegates also receive a $5,000 college scholarship to help them pursue their future ambitions.

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