United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) Scholarship

Geographic Scope: Vermont high school students

Eligibility:

• High school juniors and seniors in Vermont high schools
• Must hold an elected or appointed school or community position
• Demonstrated interest in leadership, politics, law, and government
• Top student leaders in the state

Award Benefits:

• $10,000 cash scholarship for undergraduate study
• All-expenses paid week-long trip to Washington D.C. (typically March)
• Participation in 63rd (or applicable year) annual USSYP Washington Week
• Meetings with members of Congress, Supreme Court, and Presidential Administration
• Educational program about federal government operations

Program Details:

• 2 delegates selected annually from Vermont
• 104 national student delegation total
• Delegates represent Vermont with state U.S. Senators

Selection Process:

• Applications reviewed by VPA USSYP Committee
• Committee includes retired and current school leaders
• Selection based on application packet, school/community leadership evidence, and committee interviews

2026 Selected Delegates:

• Daniel Mann, Thetford Academy (Senior)
• Quincy Sabick, Vergennes Union High School (Senior)

VPA USSYP Committee Members:

• Dan Ryan, Retired Principal
• Meredith Voutras, Retired Principal
• Greg Schillinger, Principal Rutland High School
• Alicia Lyford, Principal East Montpelier Elementary School
• Diane Reilly, Principal Hyde Park Elementary School
• Kelly Dias, Principal Academy School
• Mari Miller, Principal Brighton Elementary School
• Jay Nichols, Senior Executive Director of the VPA

Application Timeline: Completed applications due in October

Application Process

1. Eligibility Check: Confirm student is in junior or senior year with an elected or appointed school or community position
2. Application Submission:
   • Submit completed application packet
   • Due in October (annually)
   • Submit to Vermont Principals' Association
3. Application Materials: Must demonstrate
   • School leadership involvement
   • Community leadership and service
   • Interest in leadership, politics, law, and government
   • Strong academic achievement
4. Selection Process:
   • Applications reviewed by VPA USSYP Committee
   • Committee interviews finalists
   • 2 delegates selected to represent Vermont
5. Program Participation (if selected):
   • All-expenses paid trip to Washington D.C.
   • Week-long USSYP Washington Week (typically March)
   • Meetings with Congress members, Supreme Court, and Presidential Administration
   • Educational seminars on federal government

Contact

Vermont Principals' Association
2 Prospect St. Suite #3
Montpelier, VT 05602
vpaonline.org