Statewide virtual program will introduce middle school students to government oversight, public service, and the role they can play in shaping their communities
Applications open on National Back to School Prep Day, this Saturday, August 15
ALBANY, NY – New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang today announced the creation of the Offices of the Inspector General’s (OIG) inaugural Youth Advisory Council, a statewide virtual program that will bring together eighth-grade students from across New York State to explore government oversight, public service, and civic engagement.
“The future of our country will be shaped by young people who are willing to ask hard questions and committed to making government work better,” said New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang. “Our Youth Advisory Council is an opportunity to start that conversation early, help students better understand how we all play a role in government accountability, and bring their perspectives into our work promoting public integrity in New York State government.”
The six-session program will run on select Wednesdays in October and November. Each weekly session will be organized around a central question and combine presentations from OIG staff with group discussions, interactive activities, and final student presentations on improving New York State government.
The Inspector General’s inaugural Youth Advisory Council is open to eighth-grade students who attend school in New York State and have completed, or are currently enrolled in, a United States history or government course. Applications will open on Saturday, August 15, marking National Back-to-School Prep Day, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis through Friday, September 18, 2026. To apply and learn more about the program, curriculum, eligibility requirements, and application process, visit IG.NY.GOV/YAC.
The creation of a Youth Advisory Council builds on Inspector General Lang’s commitment to bringing the public into public integrity by making oversight more accessible, expanding civics education and outreach, and creating new opportunities for New Yorkers to engage with OIG’s work.
Schools and community organizations interested in OIG’s civics programming can contact [email protected] to learn more.
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The Offices of the New York State Inspector General:
Fostering confidence in New York State government by promoting integrity and transparency
through oversight of covered agencies, their employees, and those doing business with the State.
To report wrongdoing, call 1-800-DO-RIGHT (367-4448) or visit ig.ny.gov.
Follow the office’s work on social media at @NewYorkStateIG.
