Lawrence Mayor's Youth Leadership Council
November 9, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 9, 2026
MAYOR WHITFIELD ANNOUNCES ADVENT OF LAWRENCE MAYOR’S
YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
Student applications for the 2026-2027 school year now available
Lawrence, IN – Mayor Deb Whitfield today announced that she is forming the Lawrence Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council (MYLC). The MYLC is a nonpartisan program that gives Lawrence high school students an opportunity to learn how local government works, develop leadership skills, serve their community, and share youth perspectives with the Mayor’s Office.
The MYLC will begin with an orientation in December 2026, followed by monthly meetings from January through May of the school year and will conclude with a presentation to the Lawrence Common Council at the Common Council’s first meeting in June. Students will participate in a youth driven Live Longer in Lawrence project, meet City and community leaders, explore local government, and have opportunities for community service.
Who May Apply
Membership is open to high school juniors and seniors who attend a high school located within the City of Lawrence or Lawrence Township, or who reside within the City of Lawrence or Lawrence Township. Homeschooled students who reside within the City of Lawrence or Lawrence Township are also eligible.
“No prior government or leadership experience is required,” Mayor Whitfield said. “We are looking for curiosity, reliability, a willingness to participate, and a genuine interest in learning and serving the community,” the Mayor stated.
“The Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council provides and important opportunity for young people to discover the power of their voices and the impact they can have on their community,” said Dr. Shawn A. Smith, Superintendent of the MSD of Lawrence Township. “When we empower students to lead, engage in civic dialogue, and contribute to meaningful decisions, we are preparing them for success far beyond the classroom. We applaud Mayor Whitfield and her team for investing in the next generation of leaders and creating opportunities for our students to help shape the future of the City of Lawrence,” Dr. Smith stated.
Application for the Lawrence MYLC is provided here and on the City of Lawrence’s website: www.cityoflawrence.org.
Media Contact:
Jim Perron
317-590-1383
jperron@cityoflawrence.org
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About the City of Lawrence, Indiana:
Located northeast of Indianapolis, the City of Lawrence is Indiana’s 20th largest city and home to approximately 50,000 residents. While its military base was decommissioned in 1996, Lawrence has grown into a vibrant community that blends rich history with modern amenities. Under the leadership of Mayor Deb Whitfield, the city continues to thrive as a welcoming place to live, work, and play. Learn more at cityoflawrence.org.
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