May 2, 2025 – Springfield, Massachusetts – The Hampden District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Board held its annual conference on May 1 at the Basketball Hall of Fame, bringing together 55 exceptional students from 24 high schools across Western Massachusetts to present yearlong projects addressing critical issues facing today’s youth.

Hosted by District Attorney Anthony Gulluni, the conference marks the culmination of a year of collaboration, research, and advocacy by the Youth Advisory Board. Throughout the academic year, students worked in seven committees to identify challenges impacting young people: mental health, substance use, academic engagement, inclusion, social media, food insecurity, and healthy relationships. Students then work together to develop actionable recommendations. At the conference, they had the opportunity to present their findings and solutions to an audience of school leaders, law enforcement professionals, and community partners.

“This event is always a highlight of the year, but this class of students has truly outdone themselves,” said Gulluni. “Their insight, courage, and commitment to making our communities stronger is deeply inspiring. The passion and confidence they brought to their presentations left a lasting impression on everyone in the room.”

Many members of this year’s cohort are preparing to take the next step in their journeys, with several heading off to college, including two students who will attend Ivy League universities. Their achievements reflect a deep commitment not only to academic excellence, but to service, leadership, and advocacy.

“These students are among the best and brightest of Hampden County,” said Gulluni. “They are proof that when young people are empowered and given a platform, they rise to meet it, and then some.”

The Hampden District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Board is an annual program that brings together high school students from across the region to develop leadership skills and serve as a voice for their peers. Throughout the school year, students represent the District Attorney’s Office, attending several presentations at local elementary and middle schools, sharing the importance of making positive decisions and healthy choices online. The Youth Advisory Board is designed to ensure that youth perspectives help shape the policies and programs that affect them most.

Students interested in applying for next year’s Youth Advisory Board can learn more at https://tinyurl.com/2ud36tcc. Students can email Gina Anselmo at gina.anselmo@mass.gov for consideration to join the 2025-2026 class.