Amsterdam High School student Susana Gomez Aristizabal was selected to participate in the 35th annual Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute (PR/HYLI) in Albany from March 8-10. The program provides Hispanic students from across New York State with the opportunity to engage in leadership development, policy debate, and legislative processes through a Mock Assembly session at the New York State Assembly.
Susana was chosen to represent Amsterdam High School, Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, and the local community among more than 250 students from seven regional delegations. She was also selected to serve as Majority Whip, a leadership role within the Mock Assembly, where she helped guide legislative discussions and debate live bills.
In recognition of her leadership and contributions to the program, Susana received the Outstanding Student Delegate Award, an honor given to students who exemplify professionalism, teamwork, and a commitment to PR/HYLI’s core mission. She was also awarded a SOMOS scholarship, which supports Hispanic students in their pursuit of higher education and civic engagement.
As part of this recognition, Susana will travel to Washington, D.C., in May, where she will meet with New York State representatives, tour the U.S. Capitol, visit national museums, and participate in leadership development activities.
The Greater Amsterdam School District congratulates Susana on this achievement and recognizes the importance of PR/HYLI in preparing students for civic engagement, leadership, and advocacy.