In its thirtieth year, this occasion provides a platform for students to discuss issues of mental health, substance misuse, education inequity, and climate change in the backdrop of a U.S. election that affect each.

Tucson, AZ — On November 13, 2024, the Pima College Access Network, of the Metro Education Commission (MEC) of the City of Tucson and Pima County, had the privilege of welcoming 100 high school students from across Pima County to the historic Pima County Courthouse for the 30th Teen Town Hall, presented by Vantage West Credit Union. This annual event provided a dynamic platform for young people to engage with community leaders, officials, and educational institutions, discussing issues that directly impact their lives, and exploring how to take part in addressing them in their futures.

Held in the wake of the recent U.S. elections, the Teen Town Hall emphasized the importance of amplifying young voices during a pivotal time for policy and community action. Students participated in dialogue circles, facilitated by the Center for Community Mediation and Facilitation, focused on Mental Health, Substance Misuse, Climate Change, and Educational Inequity and Access. These discussions allowed them to share personal experiences, voice concerns, and propose actionable solutions to subject experts from community agencies and local government, fostering a sense of empowerment and responsibility.

The event commenced with welcoming remarks from Rocque Perez, Executive Director of MEC, who highlighted the critical role of youth engagement in shaping community policies. "My academic and professional journey began with this very event in my own Senior year of high school," said Perez, "Like I did then, you have an opportunity to build upon your journey of service, not only listening throughout the day, but to take part in conversations that will inform decision making processes and engagement in favor of yourself, your peers, and families into the future." Keysha Webb, Senior Vice President of Market Development at Vantage West Credit Union, Tucson Councilmember Lane Santa Cruz, Ph.D., Pima County Attorney Laura Conover, and a special video message from Governor Katie Hobbs also addressed the students, offering words of support and encouragement for their journeys in learning and public service. "As Governor, I know that many of the decisions I make affect people not just today, but for years to come," said Governor Hobbs, "Your voices are more powerful than you can imagine. Your unique understanding of the world around us and unbridled hope for a brighter future, brings a refreshing and much needed perspective to the decison-making table."

Throughout the morning, students engaged with various organizations at the resource and college fairs, connecting with representatives from the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, Pima Community College, and other local organizations dedicated to youth development. These interactions provided valuable information on educational pathways, scholarship opportunities, and career resources, supporting students in their future aspirations. A standout moment of the day was the panel of elected officials, including Arizona Representative Nancy Gutierrez, Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva, Pima County Recorder Gabriella Cazares-Kelly, Tucson Vice Mayor Kevin Dahl, and Sahuarita Mayor Tom Murphy. These leaders shared their personal journeys into public service, discussed the challenges they have overcome, and provided valuable advice on how young people can actively participate in their communities, before allowing students to ask their own questions. Their stories served as powerful examples of dedication and resilience, inspiring students to consider careers in public service and community leadership.

The collaborative efforts of PCAN’s Youth Civic Fellows, staff and volunteers from the Center for Community Mediation and Facilitation, and many additional helping hands from the community, ensured the event ran smoothly, which concluded with the awarding of a scholarship to a deserving student, presented in partnership with Vantage West Credit Union and Education Forward Arizona.

The 30th Teen Town Hall successfully highlighted the vital role of young people in addressing societal challenges and emphasized the importance of their active participation in community development. As the event wrapped up, there was a palpable sense of optimism and determination among the students, who left with renewed motivation to make a positive impact in their communities.

For more information about upcoming events or to get involved with the Pima College Access Network, visit their social media channels:

• Facebook: Pima College Access Network

• Instagram: @pimacollegenetwork

• LinkedIn: Pima College Access Network

For further inquiries, please contact Rocque Perez, Executive Director, rocque@pimacollegenetwork.org.