The Kankakee Valley REMC Junior Board of Directors program offers high school juniors exciting opportunities to connect with community leaders and gain a real-world perspective on leadership. Recently, the Junior Board had an unforgettable visit to the Indiana Statehouse, where they dove straight into the heart of the legislative process.

The students kicked off their day by being invited to sit in on the House Utilities Committee session by chairman of the committee, Representative Soliday, where they witnessed firsthand how critical decisions are made. Later, they had the privilege of meeting with several legislators, including Representatives Culp and Pressel and Senator Charbonneau. These meetings weren’t just about shaking hands — they were full of insightful conversations about legislators’ day-to-day responsibilities and what drives them to serve their communities. 

The excitement didn’t stop there. The students also enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the Statehouse, discovering the rich history of the building and exploring the chambers of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Senate, and House of Representatives, as well as visiting the Statehouse vault and the Lieutenant Governor’s office. It was a one-of-a-kind experience that gave them an inside look at the government’s inner workings.

“We are lucky to have legislators who believe in investing in the future leaders of our communities,” said Amanda Steeb, Kankakee Valley REMC’s director of communications and marketing. “We are grateful to them for taking time out of their busy schedules to meet with our students and help them better understand the role of government.”

The Junior Board’s visit to the Statehouse was more than just a trip — it was an inspiring opportunity for the next generation of leaders to gain hands-on experience and learn from those who shape our state.