The Ridgewood High School senior is one of only two students to represent the entire state of New Jersey
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ — The next generation of American leadership is blooming in Bergen County. Grace Kim, a senior at Ridgewood High School, has been named one of only two students to represent the entire state of New Jersey in the 64th annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP).
This March, Kim will trade the halls of RHS for the corridors of power in Washington, D.C., joining a select group of student leaders from across the nation for an intensive week of high-level diplomacy and education.
🏛️ From Ridgewood to “Washington Week”
Out of five finalists from across the Garden State, Kim’s demonstrated commitment to public service and academic excellence secured her spot in this merit-based program. From March 7–14, 2026, she will participate in “Washington Week,” a tradition established by the Senate in 1962.
The Washington Week Experience Includes:
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Federal Briefings: Meetings with directors of major federal agencies.
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Policy Addresses: Hearing directly from U.S. Senators and congressional leaders.
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The Ultimate “Meet and Greet”: Potential meetings with the President of the United States and Justices of the Supreme Court.
🎓 A $10,000 Step Toward Public Service
Beyond the once-in-a-lifetime experience in the capital, the honor comes with a significant financial reward. Grace will receive a $10,000 college scholarship for her undergraduate studies.
The program specifically encourages its delegates to pursue coursework in history, government, and political science, aiming to foster the next generation of civil servants who will, as her teacher Medha Kirtane puts it, “sustain our fragile democracy.”
💬 “Empathy, Ambition, and Optimism”
The Ridgewood community has rallied behind Kim, citing her unique blend of character and drive.
“Grace is extremely hard-working, empathetic, ambitious and optimistic,” said RHS U.S. History teacher Medha Kirtane. “These are all qualities paramount for a young person who is seeking a life of public service.”
Principal Jeff Nyhuis echoed the sentiment, stating that Kim exemplifies the leadership qualities the district strives to develop in all its students.
✨ Grace Kim’s Message of Gratitude
Reflecting on the grueling application and interview process, Kim credited her success to the support system at Ridgewood High School.
“I’m honored to have been selected… I’m grateful for the support of my teachers and school—especially Mr. Nyhuis, Mrs. Lauria, and Mrs. Kirtane—who guided me throughout,” Kim said.
USSYP Delegate Snapshot
| Detail | Information |
| Delegate | Grace Kim, RHS Senior |
| State Represented | New Jersey (1 of 2) |
| Program Dates | March 7–14, 2026 |
| Scholarship Amount | $10,000 |
| Key Qualifications | Leadership, Public Service, Academic Excellence |
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Great job😊