2023 USSYP Yearbook - Flipbook - Page 52
(ABOVE FROM LEFT) Shawn Jimenez of Maine performs original song for Farewell Night 2023; Delegate Will Nelson of North Dakota;
Delegate Summer Sun of California
A Night to Say Farewell
A
fter numerous speeches by dignitaries, diplomats and the highest-elected
officials in the nation, the last individuals to address the program are chosen by
the students themselves. Accepting the torch on behalf of the next generation,
two delegates, selected by their peers through a democratic process, reflect on their
shared experience and offer their vision for the future. Summer Sun of California and Will
Nelson of North Dakota made inspired remarks, and Shawn Jiminez of Maine performed
an original song, offering thought-provoking moments, a lot of shared laughter and
bittersweet emotion. The Farewell Dinner also brought closure to the week with a solemn
flag-folding ceremony conducted by the superb 2023 Military Mentor team and the
Presentation of Colors by the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard.
50 | UNITED STATES SENATE YOUTH PROGRAM 2023
