Three Binghamton High School Liberty students — De’Vante, Flora, and Ethan — spent two impactful days preparing for and representing their school at the 2026 Youth in Government Day in Albany.
From exploring a college campus to witnessing legislation in action, the experience offered students a front-row seat to civic engagement at the highest level in New York State.
Monday: Learning Beyond the Classroom
The trip began with a visit to the University at Albany, where students explored campus life and learned about academic programs, student supports, and opportunity pathways available to them after high school. Conversations centered around access, achievement, and the many resources designed to help students thrive in higher education.
After their campus visit, students headed to the iconic New York State Capitol for an immersive tour.
Inside the Capitol, learning came alive.
Students:
- Discovered the rich history and architecture of the building
- Observed the State Assembly in session
- Entered the Senate chamber gallery to watch preparations for session
- Learned about the Hall of Governors and the historic Red Room
- Witnessed rallies and civic demonstrations
- Explored the role of the press and the importance of First Amendment protections
- Visited the Justice Building, home to the New York State Attorney General’s office
- Watched live voting on bills, amendments, and resolutions
Rather than simply reading about government processes in a textbook, students experienced them in real time — seeing how debate, advocacy, and decision-making shape communities across the state.
After a full day of exploration and experiential learning, the group enjoyed dinner together at Outback Steakhouse. The evening provided space to relax, reflect, and strengthen their teamwork ahead of the next day’s legislative meetings.
Tuesday: Advocacy in Action
On Tuesday, the students dressed professionally and returned to the Capitol and Legislative Office Building ready to represent their school and community.
They met directly with Donna Lupardo and Lea Webb, engaging in thoughtful conversations about advocacy, education policy, community needs, and issues impacting students across New York State.
These meetings gave students dedicated time to:
- Share their perspectives
- Ask meaningful questions
- Learn how legislation is shaped
- Understand how elected officials serve their communities
Before and after their legislative sessions, students participated in broader Youth in Government Day activities. They connected with Liberty students from schools across New York State and engaged with representatives from opportunity programs such as CSTEP, HESC, HEOP, and EOP — expanding their awareness of resources that support college access and career readiness.
They also continued to witness rallies and civic engagement efforts throughout the Capitol, reinforcing the power of voice and participation in a democratic society.
Leadership in Action
De’Vante, Flora, and Ethan represented themselves, their families, their school, and their community with pride, professionalism, and purpose.
Experiences like Youth in Government Day reflect the heart of the Liberty Partnerships Program — expanding access, building confidence, and preparing students for success in college, careers, and civic life.
Through hands-on learning, direct engagement with leaders, and exposure to real-world systems and institutions, Liberty students gain more than knowledge. They gain voice. They gain vision. And they gain the belief that they belong in the very rooms where decisions are made.
By connecting students with higher education institutions, elected officials, and opportunity programs across New York State, Liberty continues to create pathways that empower young people to lead with purpose and possibility.
And as De’Vante, Flora, and Ethan demonstrated in Albany, the future of our communities is already in capable hands.
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