Council Corner

Happy Valley Youth Council Celebrates Graduating Seniors and Welcomes New Members

The City of Happy Valley recently recognized five outstanding graduating members of the Youth Council and welcomed seven new members during a swearing-in ceremony at the June 16 City Council meeting.

Since its formation in 2010, the Happy Valley Youth Council has served as the voice of the city’s teen community, providing young leaders with opportunities to engage in civic affairs, develop leadership skills, and address issues important to local youth. Over the years, Youth Council members have led initiatives focused on teen mental health, suicide prevention, substance abuse awareness, and civic engagement.

This year, the City honored graduating seniors Ariya Andrews, Kierun Sarish, Larissa Bonn, John Rask, and David Sharyan for their dedication and service to the community. Throughout their high school careers, these students worked alongside city leaders to develop projects and advocate for youth perspectives. The graduates will continue their academic journeys at Claremont McKenna College, the University of California Davis, the University of Southern California, Chapman University, and Lewis & Clark College, respectively.

The City also welcomed seven new Youth Council members who were selected to serve at the beginning of this year: Anderson Hunt, Brynn Walter, Maya Brennan, Patrick Callahan, and Talin Sarish from Adrienne C. Nelson High School; Hana Yohannes from Clackamas High School; and Joseph Pienovi from Mother of Divine Grace. During the meeting, Mayor Ellis administered the oath of office, officially inducting the new members into the Youth Council.

The incoming members join current Youth Councilors Dominic Pienovi, Kanak Patel, Gian Manzan, Lucas Wong, Jessica Rask, Juliana Lee, and Hawi Mekonnen as they continue the council’s mission of serving as role models, community leaders, and advocates for Happy Valley’s youth.

The City extends its gratitude to the graduating seniors for their years of service and looks forward to the contributions of the newest Youth Council members as they help shape the future of Happy Valley.