Charleston Leader

WASHINGTON, D.C. - West Virginia Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) has extended her congratulations to Peyton Barker and Bryson Riggleman, two high school students from West Virginia who have been selected as the state's representatives for the 2024 United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). The program, which is now in its 62nd year, will take place from March 2 to March 9, 2024, during the annual USSYP Washington Week.

Senator Capito commended Peyton and Bryson for their outstanding leadership qualities and contributions to their communities. She expressed her confidence in their future success and highlighted their dedication to the state of West Virginia. Senator Capito stated, "Both of these bright students display qualities that are essential to their future success and are making an impact in their communities of Ronceverte and Petersburg. It is clear that Peyton and Bryson are diligent future leaders and display an unmatched dedication to the state of West Virginia. I look forward to welcoming them to Washington in the spring, and I'm certain they will continue to make our state proud."

The USSYP, which was established in 1962, is fully funded by The Hearst Foundations and sponsored by the Senate. Its mission is to provide a deeper understanding of the American political process to each class of USSYP student delegates and to foster a lifelong commitment to public service. As part of the program, Peyton and Bryson, along with the other selected students, will have the opportunity to engage in various activities and discussions that focus on government, history, and public affairs.

Furthermore, The Hearst Foundations will award each student with a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship, encouraging them to pursue further studies in government, history, and public affairs.

Peyton Barker and Bryson Riggleman's selection for the USSYP is a testament to their exceptional leadership skills and dedication to public service. West Virginia can be proud of these two outstanding students who will represent the state during this prestigious program.