Future Illinois leaders got a front-row seat to government in action on March 25 as 168 students sponsored by 24 electric and telephone cooperatives across the state traveled to Springfield for Youth Day.
“The annual event gives students an opportunity to engage with elected officials, explore the State Capitol and learn how cooperative principles connect with leadership and public service,” said Brooke Gross, member services manager at the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives and facilitator of its youth programs. “Co-ops are committed not only to providing reliable service but also to investing in future generations.”
Youth Day is designed to introduce young leaders to state government and the cooperative principles that serve their communities. Students met with their own elected officials to experience the workings of state government firsthand.
“When I think of politicians, I think big and scary people,” said Qynlin Brown, a student who was sponsored by Clay Electric Co-operative. “But I talked to Senator Jason Plummer, and he was really nice. He was very friendly, and he was open to all of our questions and [about] his life experiences. He gave us great advice.”
In addition, students met Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs. He shared his journey from a small town in Illinois to his current role, emphasizing the importance of finding interesting and challenging opportunities. He encouraged the students to pursue their passions, participate and become lifelong learners.
They also met Micah Anderson, the 2025-26 Illinois Youth Leadership Council representative, who was sponsored by Adams Telephone Co-Operative for the 2025 Youth Day and Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. He said that representing Illinois has been one of the most fulfilling things he’s done in his life.
“Throughout the year, I’ve grown in many ways that I could have never imagined,” Anderson said. “I never thought that I would be able to see myself as a leader. … I’m a testament to the growth that you can undergo if you take advantage of the opportunities that are placed in front of you. I challenge you all to do the same.”
After lunch, several students had the opportunity to visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. “The [museum] was the coolest experience,” said Kasen Humke, who was sponsored by Adams Electric Cooperative. “We got to see all kinds of stuff about the Civil War, about Lincoln’s assassination, and just about his life, and how he went from a small boy all the way to [the] President of the United States who led us through one of the hardest times in our country’s history.”
At the end of the day, attendees were interviewed for the chance to participate in Youth Tour, an annual trip to Washington, D.C., also sponsored by Illinois electric and telephone cooperatives. This year’s trip will be held June 15-22. Follow along on their journey by going to facebook.com/ILYouthTour.
