LUHS Senior Ellie Neckers Selected as 2025 United States Senate Youth Program Delegate

Hyde Park, Vermont – The Lamoille North Supervisory Union and Lamoille Union High School are proud to announce that Olive “Ellie” Neckers, a senior at Lamoille Union High School, has been selected as one of Vermont’s 2025 United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) delegates. This prestigious recognition highlights Ellie’s exceptional leadership, academics, and community involvement achievements.  The Vermont Principal’s Association first announced the recognition.

The USSYP, established in 1962 and funded by the Hearst Foundations, is a nationwide initiative to inspire young Americans to pursue careers in public service. Each year, two students from every state are selected to participate in an all-expenses-paid week-long trip to Washington, D.C., where they gain firsthand insight into the workings of the federal government. Delegates will meet with members of Congress, the Supreme Court, and the Presidential Administration, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the nation’s highest leaders and institutions.

“This award means a lot to me as the last winner from Lamoille was in 2005, marking the 20th anniversary of the previous recipient,” explained Neckers. “I am excited to bring the honor back to LUHS. In addition to a $10,000 scholarship, I will meet current Supreme Court Justices, the President, and our incredible VT senators. Hearing from the most powerful and respected men and women who have devoted themselves to our country will be life-changing. Not to mention the other delegates from other states, with whom I have already been lucky enough to start to develop a bond. The USSYP scholarship is not just a one-and-done honor; I will now be involved in a lifelong community of distinguished individuals and incredible human beings,” she added.

Her selection follows a multi-tiered application process. She submitted an exceptional application and six written essays, demonstrated leadership in her school and community, which Neckers explains were traits her parents instilled in her at a young age, and she excelled in interviews conducted by the USSYP committee. This committee comprises Vermont educators, including retired principals, current school leaders, and educational consultants.

Growing up as a transgender youth, Neckers explains she was thrust onto a state-wide stage at the age of eight, giving speeches and talking on panels regarding teaching trans youth in Vermont and beyond. This is where she found her love for public speaking and activism. These bloomed in high school thanks to the opportunities available to her, from serving on the student council to helping co-design Lamoille North’s district equity design team, which eventually turned into a part-time position with the non-profit UP for Learning.

Lamoille Union High School Principal Bethann Pirie said, “We are incredibly proud of Ellie for this remarkable achievement. Her commitment to leadership and service inspires our school and our Lamoille North communities. Students like Ellie elevate those around them, improving the lives of those she knows. Our school community is made better by her personality, drive, and positivity.”

Ellie will be joined by Grey Fearon, a senior at Vergennes Union High School, as Vermont’s 2025 USSYP delegates. Together, they represent the exceptional talent and dedication of Vermont’s high school students.

The USSYP and the Vermont Principals’ Association encourage all high-achieving juniors and seniors interested in leadership, politics, law, or government to consider applying for this distinguished program next year. Applications for the 2026 USSYP will be available through the VPA website and are due in October.

About the USSYP

The United States Senate Youth Program was established by Senate Resolution 324 in 1962 to provide outstanding high school students with a deeper understanding of the American political process and foster a lifelong commitment to public service. Funded entirely by the Hearst Foundations, the program has become one of the nation’s most esteemed youth leadership initiatives.

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