“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 3.5 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 an SOS Ambassador, I’ve learned that young voices make a lasting impact when we step up to lead and serve no matter a title or position held. Too often civic engagement starts late in life. However, this program enhances the game. As a senior soon going to college, it’s inspiring to know MY generation is and will be the generation that does. Leadership is a mindset. The SOS Ambassador Program creates new perspectives and outlooks on critical thinking. This program has challenged me to lead with integrity, speak with confidence, and work with purpose not just for today, but for the future of Mississippi." -Elizabeth Flowers, 2025-2026 SOS Student Ambassador, Junior Secretary of State
“I love being part of the Student Ambassador Program because it has helped me grow as a leader. The program connects us with Ambassadors from across the state and lets us learn directly from state leaders. As a hands-on learner, I especially enjoyed the initial summit in Jackson at the Two Mississippi Museums, where we could speak with staff from the Secretary of State’s Office and see how elections take place. I’ve also been inspired by leaders like Judge Amy St. Pe from Pascagoula and Coach Yo from Ole Miss Women’s Basketball, who shared different approaches to leadership and showed how it can take many forms. Experiencing leadership in so many ways has made civic engagement feel more tangible as a teen. I’m excited for the opportunity to use the skills and tools I’ve learned in this program to lead my own civic engagement events in the future.” -Anna Martin, 2025-2026 SOS Student Ambassador
For more information or questions about the SOS Student Ambassador Program, please email Ambassadors@sos.ms.gov.