Ryan Wall

Few U.S. presidential elections in recent history have been as momentous as the one ready to take place in November. With either candidate, those in attendance at the presidential inauguration this January will be treated to a historic first – Barack Obama would be the first African-American U.S. president, while John McCain would be the oldest U.S. president upon ascension to the presidency. Among those watching history unfold will be Ryan Wall, a rising eighth-grader at Chester Middle School.

“I’m very excited about going and listening to the president speak,” says Wall. “I’ve never seen one in person and had no idea that this would ever occur.”

A member of the National Young Scholars program, Wall was invited to participate in the Junior Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference (JrPYIC). The five-day program will give middle school students from across the country the opportunity to learn the history behind the electoral process and the traditions that surround the presidential inauguration.

“The Junior Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference will provide students with an opportunity to take part in historic events that coincide with the inauguration of the president of the United States,” says Mike Lasday, executive director of the Congressional Youth Leadership Council, the organization that sponsors JrPYIC. “Something that is really wonderful about so many young people gathering in Washington D.C. for this event is that it will provide them a chance to become more familiar with and attuned to the president who will govern our country over the next four years. We certainly hope this will inspire the next generation of U.S. leaders.”

Along with viewing the inauguration ceremonies, Wall will listen to keynote speakers Lance Armstrong, Senator John Edwards, author Elizabeth Edwards, and filmmaker Erik Weihenmayer; interact with White House officials, congressional staff members, and political experts; and have a front-row seat to the inaugural parade. In a culmination of the five-day conference, Wall will end the program by attending a Gala Inaugural Ball.

“I am so proud for Ryan to have been selected for this event and to be able to attend,” says Bradley Wall, Ryan Wall’s father. “When I was young, I never had this type of opportunity, so I am just so glad that he has this opportunity.”

In addition to these events, Wall will have a chance to explore the historic sites and monuments scattered around Washington D.C., including private access to the Smithsonian Institution on the National Mall. He will also be participating in several conferences, including one on understanding the vote and the Electoral College and one detailing the many roles of the president.

For Wall, however, he’s looking forward to one thing more than anything else.

“I’m really looking forward to the seeing the president make his first speech,” says Wall. “Plus, I think that the Gala Ball will be a lot of fun.”

nderatto@villagepublishing.com | 751-0421

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