By Journalist Olivia Kopang (OSU)
The second session of the 55th Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature has begun!
Student representatives and senators gathered at the capitol in Oklahoma City tonight for joint session, which marks the start of a new session of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature.
For those unfamiliar, the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature stands as a place of learning, offering students a hands-on opportunity to immerse themselves in the intricacies of state government.
Modeled after the actual legislative process, this mock student government empowers participants to draft bills, engage in committee hearings, and ultimately vote on proposed legislation. Through this immersive experience, students gain invaluable insights into the complexities of policymaking and hone their skills as future leaders.
Eager minds and impassioned hearts from across the state awaited the governor and lieutenant governor’s remarks. Inspired looks were evident on each senator and representative’s face as OIL’s leaders reflected on the past year and looked forward to what the organization will look like in the future.
Not only was the body excited to hear from its leaders, but they were also eager to hear from the night’s guest speakers. Governor Stitt’s Director of Communication, Abegail Cave, and OK Policy Executive Director Shiloh Kantz.
The honored guests both spoke about their time in the field of public service and how young leaders can make a difference in the world – from local government to the national scale. One theme was abundantly clear between both speakers: the future of our state is in good hands because of the leaders that OIL creates.
What unites Cave and Kantz—and distinguishes them as exemplary public servants—is not only their youthfulness but also their unwavering commitment to the common good.
Representative Faith Gregory (SWOSU) expressed her admiration for everything OIL has done for her and her favorite parts of session.
“Honestly, my favorite part of session is just meeting everybody and seeing what everyone’s ideas are. I love seeing the bills that get presented because you never know what’s on people’s hearts until you hear the bills and hear their stories. It’s just a fun way to get to know people and figure out what interests you.”
In the heart of the Oklahoma State Capitol, amidst the example of leadership in the past and the promise of the future, OIL stands as a testament to the power of youth, the strength of community, and the enduring ideals of democracy. As the second session of the 55th Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature begins, each young leader will surely embrace the challenges ahead with courage and conviction, with a belief in the power of positive change.