“The SOS Student Ambassador Program is a great opportunity for young leaders to cultivate their affinity for public service and expand leadership skills. We are excited to take part in the development and growth of the next generation of Mississippians and look forward to providing a greater understanding of one of our greatest liberties, the right to vote.”
- Secretary of State Michael Watson
WHAT IS THE SOS STUDENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM?
The Secretary of State’s Student Ambassador Program is a program between high school seniors, the Secretary of State’s Office, and Secretary of State Michael Watson. Through the program, students with a passion for leadership and state government are equipped to return to their schools as proponents of voter education and awareness. They also have regular interactions with leaders from the Secretary of State’s Office, Mississippi Legislature, and various other state and local officials.
Students who complete the program receive a first-hand account of state government in action, establish a network of like-minded peers from across the state, and experience the processes that ensure Mississippi is a better place for their generation and generations to come.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Any student who meets the following criteria may submit an application to be considered for admission:
- Grade Point Average of 3.0 or above
- Upcoming high school senior
- Proven satisfactory behavioral conduct
- Interest in state government
WHAT DO STUDENT AMBASSADORS DO THROUGHOUT THE YEAR?
Ambassadors attend one-day spring and fall semester summits at the Secretary of State’s Office in Jackson as well as participate in periodic conference calls. The fall summit focuses on the elections process in Mississippi with an emphasis on the importance of voter education and participation in the election process. Student Ambassadors get an inside view of how elections operate in the state including an opportunity to serve at polling places in their area.
The spring summit, during the legislative session, gives students a deeper understanding of the Mississippi legislative process. Students are equipped to develop a spring voter registration campaign in their schools. Through monthly virtual meetings, students are able to collaborate, ask questions, and seek guidance from Secretary of State representatives, Mississippi legislators, and each other.
WHAT DO FORMER STUDENT AMBASSADORS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE PROGRAM?
"As the selected Junior Secretary of State for the 2023-2024 SOS Secretary of State Ambassador Program, I am excited to reflect on my enriching experience. Working closely with fellow ambassadors has been a highlight, as we collaborated on impactful projects like the voter registration drive. Engaging with the Secretary of State offered valuable insights into the workings of our government and the importance of civic participation. Through these interactions and the collective efforts of our team, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of our roles in shaping our community. This program has ultimately empowered us with the knowledge and skills to drive meaningful change and build lasting connections." – Christopher Dawson, 2023-2024 SOS Student Ambassador and Junior Secretary of State
“My time serving as an Ambassador for the Secretary of State’s Office was nothing short of amazing! The ambassador program does everything from introducing us to local, state, and federal officials, getting us interested in staying in Mississippi and giving back to our community, and also giving us a chance to go visit different colleges across the state! Whoever serves as the next ambassadors for this program will be extremely grateful that they have taken the opportunity to participate!” – Kye Webb, 2023-2024 SOS Student Ambassador
For more information or questions about the SOS Student Ambassador Program, please email Publications@sos.ms.gov or call 601-359-6383.