Senior Hana Ebbert participated in the recent Orange County Youth in Government Day and had the distinction of taking on the role of Orange County Executive for the day, with sophomore Ronny Mazza Jr. of Pine Bush High School serving as Deputy Orange County Executive.
“They worked with my team, helped keep things running smoothly, and even presented two proclamations,” said County Executive Steve Neuhaus, who was out-of-town for naval reserve duty, but was able to be part of their experience remotely. “Great job by both.”
County Executive Neuhaus also proudly noted that Hanna will attend Harvard University this fall.
Orange County Youth in Government Day is an annual civic education event where high school students get a hands-on look at how local government operates. Held at the Orange County Government Center, the program brings together students from different school districts to shadow real county officials and departments, such as the County Executive’s office, courts and public services.
Throughout the day, students participate in activities like mock legislative sessions, debates on real issues, and simulations where they take on roles such as legislators, judges or law enforcement officials, or in Hanna’s case, as County Executive. Organized by the Orange County Youth Bureau in partnership with Orange-Ulster BOCES, the event aims to teach students how government works beyond the classroom while encouraging civic engagement and interest in public service.