Photos submitted to the Times Observer Warren-Forest Higher Education Council’s Youth Leadership Program students are pictured in the state House of Representatives during a recent visit to Harrisburg.

Students in the Warren-Forest Higher Education Council’s Youth Leadership Program took a trip to Harrisburg this week, where they were recognized during a House of Representatives session.

Hosted by Rep. Kathy Rapp, R-Warren, and state Sen. Scott Hutchinson, R-Oil City, the students learned about life in the state Legislature. Rapp spent significant time with the group, talking with students and answering questions.

“Representative Rapp spent so much time with us today, and that made me feel like we are important to her,” said Gabby Bigelow, one of the student participants. “She seemed excited that we were there. She was so nice.”

The group also met with Hutchinson, who explained how the state Senate works and discussed the importance of public service.

Warren-Forest Higher Education Council’s Youth Leadership Program students listen as state Sen. Scott Hutchinson speaks.

“It makes me feel like I could be a leader in Harrisburg one day,” Gabby added. “They are just nice people like us, but they have big responsibilities.”

In addition to their time at the Capitol, the students visited the State Library of Pennsylvania, where they explored the rare books collection. Among the highlights: a book that was purchased for the library by Benjamin Franklin, along with artwork depicting Franklin reading it. The students were allowed to touch the original book–one Franklin himself once handled.

They also viewed a Warren newspaper from 1875 and a collection of illustrated historic homes from Warren County. Alaina and Evelyn Ongley said they were especially excited to see pictures of homes in Tidioute and told the library historian they attend school there.

Emily Magnuson, office manager at Warren-Forest Hi-Ed, also attended the trip.

“I’m so glad the kids had a chance to see just how gorgeous our Capitol building really is,” she said. “The level of detail and craftsmanship throughout the building is amazing–it’s something everyone should see at least once.”

Warren-Forest Higher Education Council’s Youth Leadership Program listens as Rep. Kathy Rapp speaks.

The Youth Leadership Program, part of the Warren-Forest Hi-Ed Council’s School to Work initiative, is designed for middle school students in sixth through eighth grades. The program teaches foundational leadership principles and introduces students to local leadership opportunities within their own communities. Through visits, hands-on learning, and conversations with leaders in government, education, and business, the program encourages students to see themselves as future contributors and changemakers–right here in Warren and Forest counties.

“The entire day was packed with learning, conversation, and meaningful moments,” added Angela Bigelow, assistant director and school to work coordinator at Warren-Forest Higher Education Council. “I’m incredibly proud of how focused and respectful our students were throughout such a long and demanding day. Representative Rapp and Senator Hutchinson were so welcoming and accommodating. I’m truly grateful for their time and their willingness to help us show our students what leadership looks like at the state level.”

For more information about the Youth Leadership Program or other School to Work opportunities, contact Bigelow at 814-723-3222 or visit www.hi-ed.org