DAVENPORT, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), former chairman and senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today welcomed juniors and seniors from southeast and eastern Iowa high schools to his fifth Federal Judiciary Youth Summit.
The summit is part of Grassley’s long-standing effort to encourage civic engagement among young Iowans and emphasize how the separation of powers strengthens our system of self-government. Ten high schools from seven counties participated in this year’s program.
Grassley was joined by Judge Stephen Locher, a Senate-confirmed judge for the Southern District of Iowa. Locher gave students and teachers a glimpse into his experiences within the justice system and his daily life as a federal judge. Grassley discussed his responsibilities as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, in recommending and vetting judicial nominations.
“The federal judiciary can impact decades, even centuries, of American life. As a federal legislator with an immense appreciation for history and the Framers of our constitution, I welcome any chance to open the door to our nation’s governing system and foster dialogue among young Iowans,” Grassley said.
“I thank Judge Locher for sharing his invaluable insights, as well as the students and educators for their eagerness to listen, learn and ask questions. I hope this program will inspire young minds and pique their interest in public service. Our nation’s future is in good hands if thoughtful, engaged Iowans like the students I met today have anything to say about it,” Grassley concluded.
Attendees at this morning’s summit expressed appreciation for the open discussions and educational opportunity:
“I really enjoyed the session,” said Madelyn Gobble of Fort Madison High School. “It’s interesting to hear a real-life perspective from both [Judge Locher] and Senator Chuck Grassley, as well as getting that perspective of being from such a small town and being able to go on and be something larger.”
“I thought this was a very beneficial experience. We got to learn about our judicial system and speak with some very influential people in our society,” said Jack Hoffman of Clinton High School.
Additional photos from today’s event can be found HERE.
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