Madison “Maddy” Noval, a dedicated student leader from Ellenville Jr/Sr High School and an active member in the Go Beyond Greatness program, has been selected to represent Ulster County on the 2024-2025 New York State Governor’s Youth Council. This prestigious honor reflects Noval’s exceptional leadership skills, commitment to community service, and passion for youth advocacy.
The New York State Governor’s Youth Council is a statewide initiative that brings together young leaders from across New York to provide input on key issues affecting young people. Members are chosen for their leadership qualities, involvement in their communities, and their ability to represent the voices and concerns of their peers.
Noval was selected after a competitive application process that included essays, recommendations, and a demonstration of a clear vision for improving the lives of young people in Ulster County and beyond. As the representative for Ulster County, Noval will collaborate with other youth leaders across the state to advise on policies related to education, public safety, mental health, and environmental sustainability. The council works closely with state officials to ensure that the voices of young New Yorkers are heard and considered in policy-making decisions.
“I am honored to have been chosen to represent Ulster County on the Governor’s Youth Council,” said Noval. “I hope the community feels my dedication and determination in making sure the youth voices of Ulster County are heard. Even the smallest actions can create ripples of positive change and I’m excited to be part of that transformation.”
Noval’s selection as a representative reflects her outstanding leadership and dedication. She has been actively involved in various leadership clubs through the Ellenville Central School District. Her initial step into leadership was through the My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) initiative, which provides a range of programs designed to help students broaden their horizons and develop a clearer vision for their futures. Noval began her journey with MBK as a volunteer for the Community Teen Parent Program when she was just a 7th grader. Recently, she has eagerly participated in other MBK partnership programs, such as Go Beyond Greatness and the Circle of Courage. Through her involvement, Noval has demonstrated a strong commitment to both personal growth and community service.
“Maddy exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and excellence that we strive to instill in all our students,” said Frank Mulhern, School and Community Engagement Coordinator for the Ellenville Central School District. “We are so proud of Maddy and congratulate her on this well-deserved and exciting appointment to the Governor’s Youth Council! We know she will do a great job!”
Go Beyond Greatness, a leadership development program aimed at empowering young people to achieve their full potential, also recognized Noval’s achievements. “Maddy has shown remarkable dedication and growth through our program,” said Ashley Knox-Alleyne, Executive Director of Go Beyond Greatness. “We are thrilled to see her hard work and passion recognized at the state level.”
The Ulster County Youth Bureau equally praised Noval on being selected as the County’s representative. “Congratulations Maddy!” said Sugely “Sue” Melenciano-Weed, the Director of the Ulster County Youth Bureau. “Your selection as Ulster County's student representative for the Governor's Youth Council is a testament to your hard work, leadership, and dedication. We're incredibly proud of you and can't wait to see the positive impact you'll make!”
The Governor’s Youth Council will meet regularly to discuss issues, propose solutions, and collaborate on initiatives that address the needs and concerns of youth across New York State.