Dupage Policy Journal

Senator John Curran stated that with drop-ins from Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and Treasurer Michael Frerichs, and more than 50 students in attendance, "our spring Youth Advisory Council was one of our best yet." He made this statement in a June 25 Facebook post.

"Our Spring Youth Advisory Council was one of our best ones yet, complete with surprise visits from two of Illinois' most influential elected officials: Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and State Treasurer Michael Frerichs," said Curran, State Senator, according to Facebook. "I was so impressed with the 50+ students' active engagement, unique ideas and commitment to playing an integral part in our community."

According to Curran, "I’m very excited that we have so many high school students that have a passion and want to find ways to help, and they want to learn about what we in state government and also at the local level do. I’m really pleased. At this particular forum we have two state officials, we have the Secretary of State, Secretary Giannoulias and we have the Illinois State Treasurer, Treasurer Frerichs." Curran shared these remarks in a video on Facebook showcasing the highlights.

Screenshot of Sen. John F. Curran's June 25 Facebook post | Senator John Curran's Facebook page

Students from Lemont High School, Downers Grove North and South High Schools, Naperville North High School, Hinsdale Central High School, Chesterton Academy, and Pleasantdale School District 107 attended the Senator’s Spring Youth Advisory Council.

"I definitely think I’m gonna try and pick up a little of a leadership role, like how to communicate better and how to play a part in my community and be a leader in my community. They’re saying how volunteering and getting involved would be amazing. That’s what I’m trying to take away from this," said Sophia Lund in the video shared by Curran. Lund is a student from Naperville North High School who attended the most recent gathering of Senator Curran’s Youth Advisory Council.

These youth advisory councils have been held for several years. After a 2019 event, Curran told the Bugle Newspapers that "this program is a chance for students to not only learn more about government but to see that their voices are heard in Springfield. I hope these students leave with an interest not only in government but in becoming leaders in their communities."

John Curran joined the Illinois General Assembly in 2017. Before joining the Illinois Senate, he was a member of the DuPage County Board for three terms, starting as a member then rising to Vice Chair. He is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation according to his official biography.