The Maryland Youth Advisory Council was established through the State legislature (Chapter 559, Acts of 2008, Chapter 69, Acts of 2009, and Chapter 620, Acts of 2016) to ensure that Maryland youth are allowed to provide feedback and recommendations regarding public policies and programs that affect their future and to take a leadership role in creating meaningful change. As a coalition of diverse young advocates and leaders from across the state, the Maryland Youth Advisory Council addresses relevant issues by influencing legislation, spreading public awareness, and serving as a liaison between youth and policymakers. OUR VISION: The Maryland Youth Advisory Council strives to be an influential voice that: Incites change for the betterment of Maryland youth, Ensures equal opportunity for all youth regardless of background or circumstance, Initiates political conversations with youth, Educates youth on political issues and is respected by legislators and other stakeholders on youth issues. Council members are appointed by the: Governor of Maryland President of the Maryland Senate, and Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates. Governor’s Office for Children appoints council members nominated by the: – Maryland Association of Student Councils, – University System of Maryland Student Council, – Maryland Higher Education Commission Student Advisory Council, and – Association of Local Management Boards.