The City of Huntsville has selected 30 students for the second Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, a yearlong leadership program that gives local students a voice in city government.
Led by the City’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, the program is open to rising high school freshmen through seniors. Participants learn how city government operates while working with municipal leaders. They also take part in service projects, leadership activities and civic engagement initiatives.
The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council launched in 2025. City officials said the inaugural class helped establish a strong foundation for the program as students reported gaining confidence, developing leadership skills and learning how to advocate for issues affecting their peers.
“This program empowers young people to learn how their city works and to meaningfully shape the community around them,” said Dr. Randy Barbour Jr., who oversees the program. “Our first cohort set a strong foundation, and I’m excited to see how this next group will build upon their legacy.”
Five students from the inaugural class will return this year. They will mentor new members and help lead projects throughout the program.
Barbour said the returning students will strengthen the council by sharing their experience with the incoming class.
“Huntsville’s young people have powerful ideas, and MYAC gives them a platform to put those ideas into action,” Barbour said. “Their voices help ensure that our city grows in ways that reflect the needs and perspectives of the next generation.”
The 2026-27 cohort includes Aissata “Taylor” Bah, Aliyah Reed, Annabel Taylor, Audrey Wester, Brianne Jablonski, Cassandra “Cassy” Sage, Chandler Calhoun, Cinco Dawkins, Corinn Bodenhamer, Eden Johnson, Emery Pippins, Emylee Drummond, Fawensky Valery, Ike Kennedy, Jack Meko, Jeremiah Dryer, Joshua Ramclam, Karmen Jones, Kennedi Norwood, Leah Fairley-Fisher, Lillie Garland, Matthew Grace, McClane Michkiosky, McKayla Ferris, Mia Boyzo, Morpheus Vlasoff, Natalyia Adams, Robert “Bo” Reynolds, Sophia Stansbury and TiLyn Evans.
The new cohort will begin meeting later this year. Over the next year, members will work with city officials, explore city operations and contribute new perspectives to the community. City leaders said the program is designed to prepare the next generation of civic leaders while encouraging students to become more engaged in their community.
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