The League of Women Voters of Evanston has announced that Madeline Young is the recipient of its fourth annual scholarship to a graduating senior at Evanston Township High School.
The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation by citizens in government. This scholarship is given to a student who has demonstrated commitment to an activity that promotes participation in the political process within ETHS and/or the Evanston community and exemplifies a high standard of good citizenship and social involvement, consistent with the League’s mission. This includes participating in activities such as, but not limited to, student government, assisting with voter registration, participating in other organizations that show engagement and interest in public service and the political process.
While in high school, Ms. Young was an active member and leader of the accomplished ETHS Debate team, debating such topics as gerrymandering, tax cuts and job bills. She also served two internships with Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky.
Through the Sierra Club, she worked on the Fair Tax Campaign in Illinois. As a member of the Sierra Club’s Endorsement Committee, she reviewed the Evanston mayoral candidates’ environmental positions and asked the candidates questions, including how they would work to make public and outdoor spaces in Evanston more equitable and what specific steps they would take to implement Evanston’s Climate Action and Resilience Plan. While engaged in her various civic activities, Ms. Young also earned a 4.55 GPA and was on the ETHS high honor roll all four years.
The League believes that through her actions, Madeline Young exemplifies civic engagement and citizen participation in the political process. In the fall, she will attend American University and focus on International and Environmental studies.