NEWS: Blunt Rochester, Coons, McBride welcome students statewide for 2026 Delaware Congressional Delegation Youth Conference

U.S. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester and Chris Coons and U.S. Representative Sarah McBride (all D-Del.) today welcomed more than 100 high school juniors and seniors from up and down Delaware for the 2026 Delaware Congressional Delegation Youth Conference at Wilmington University's Dover campus.

Students from schools throughout all three counties spent the day participating in discussions focused on civic engagement, leadership, and public service. Programming included a student town hall with members of Delaware's congressional delegation, interactive breakout sessions on public policy and school safety, and optional community service projects supporting the Food Bank of Delaware and Pressley Ridge-Delaware.

"Our democracy is strongest when young people are engaged, informed, and empowered to lead," said Senator Blunt Rochester. "From their thoughtful questions to their bold ideas, these students remind me why I remain hopeful about the next generation of leaders. I'm grateful to Senator Coons and Congresswoman McBride for their partnership in continuing this important tradition of civic engagement and public service."

"Every year, this conference demonstrates how thoughtful, engaged, and motivated Delaware's young people are," said Senator Coons. "Students asked challenging questions, shared their perspectives openly, and showed a real commitment to improving their communities through service and civic participation. I'm grateful to Senator Blunt Rochester, Congresswoman McBride, Wilmington University, and all of our community partners for helping make this year's conference such a success."

"This annual event gives our congressional delegation the opportunity to hear directly from Delaware students about their concerns and their vision for a stronger future for our state and nation," said Rep. McBride. "Building that future starts with investing in young people and ensuring they have the support and space to lead with creativity, innovation, and compassion - today. I'm grateful to Senator Coons and Senator Blunt Rochester for their continued partnership in making this conference possible."

The conference also included participation from local service organizations, volunteer groups, higher education representatives, and public service programs, giving students opportunities to explore future pathways in civic leadership and community engagement. For more photos from today's event, [CLICK HERE].