Edina Student, Pranika Kumar, Selected for United States Senate Youth Program

MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota high school student Pranika Kumar will join Senator Amy Klobuchar and Senator Tina Smith in representing Minnesota during the 63rd annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) Washington Week, to be held March 1-8, 2025.

Pranika Kumar, of Edina, was selected from among the state’s top student leaders to be part of the national student delegation. Each delegate will also receive a $10,000 college scholarship for undergraduate study.

“Congratulations to Pranika on your dedicated work to serve your schools and communities, which has led you to this opportunity to learn from our nation’s leaders,” said Commissioner Willie Jett. “Minnesota is proud of young leaders like you.”

Each year this competitive merit-based program provides the most outstanding high school students—two from each state, the District of Columbia and the Department of Defense Education Activity—with an intensive week-long study of the federal government and the people who lead it. The overall mission of the program is to help instill within each class of delegates more profound knowledge of the American political process and a lifelong commitment to public service.

"The U.S. Senate Youth Program is an incredible opportunity for young leaders to engage with our government and develop the skills and insights that will help them lead in the future," said Sen. Tina Smith. "Programs like these are important for equipping young people with the tools they need to make a difference in their communities and beyond. Minnesota is fortunate to have such talented and dedicated students representing our state."

Pranika Kumar, a junior at Edina High School, serves as a student representative on the Edina Human Rights Commission. She has spearheaded student-led initiatives to address mental health and educational disparities, particularly in communities facing systemic neglect.

Her leadership is driven by her commitment to equity and progress. She hopes to bridge her STEM background with advocacy efforts, combining scientific research with policy reform to address systemic inequalities. This intersection of science and social justice allows her to tackle complex issues from multiple angles, ensuring solutions are grounded in empathy and action.

During the program week, the student delegates attend meetings and briefings with senators, the president, a justice of the Supreme Court, and leaders of cabinet agencies, among others.

Read the full press release by clicking here.

Contact: Anna Kurth
651-582-8798
Anna.Kurth@state.mn.us