EVENT: The National Hispanic Institute’s Lorenzo de Zavala (LDZ) Youth Legislative Session brings more than 130 high school students from around the world to the University of Rochester for a week-long program that engages them in the legislative process. The program culminates with a final Supreme Court trial, where the two teams of students will debate policy issues including health care, social services, education, and economics.
TIME, DATE, AND PLACE: 4:00-6:30 p.m. Friday, July 13, Hoyt Auditorium on the University of Rochester’s River Campus
WHAT: The week-long program—named for the man who played a significant role in the Texas War of Independence and served as the new republic’s first vice president—is designed to let students envision themselves as future community leaders by engaging them in a mock government.
During a general convention, students elect attorneys, leaders for the House of Representatives, Senate, and a lieutenant governor. The students engage in intense work sessions where they create their own government, write and pass legislation, and negotiate to promote their values.
In November 2011, NHI presented the University with its College of the Year Award during the organization’s annual Celebración in San Antonio, Texas. In 2006, the University began its partnership with NHI, bringing high school students to the Northeast for the first time to participate in the LDZ program. In 2006, the University also launched the LDZ scholarship, which provides financial assistance to students who have participated in the summer program and are accepted into one of Rochester’s undergraduate programs.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Media interested in covering the mock trial can call Melissa Greco Lopes at 585-276-3693 for more information.
