Join the Maryland Youth Advisory Council

Join MYAC

The Maryland Youth Advisory Council membership applications open March - June annually. Annually, the council opens approximately 8-12 slots for appointments.

In 2008, the Maryland Youth Advisory Council was established through the Maryland General Assembly to ensure that Maryland youth are given the opportunity to provide feedback and recommendations regarding public policies and programs that affect their future and to take a leadership role in creating meaningful change. By providing policy recommendations through testimony in Annapolis, council members have the opportunity to raise their voices and share their experiences with the Governor, State legislature, agencies, and other youth.

Council members will be expected to:

Attend and participate in no less than 66% general council sessions (Failure to meet meeting expectations can result in removal from the Council);
Engage in robust discussions about youth-related issues with fellow members and community members;
Develop collective strategies to address youth-related issues;
Serve as liaisons to other affiliated youth organizations and peers in his/her communities;
Participate in the Maryland Legislative Session including providing testimony, tracking bills, and meeting with legislators;
Develop leadership and advocacy skills;
Build life-long connections with other Maryland youth;
Gain a once in a life-time experience filled with fun!

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted through the GOC’s portal HERE during open application windows.

Window for submissions: March 12, 2026 - June 15, 2026

Potential council members must be 14-22 years of age on September 1, 2025. All members must serve a two-year term (September 1 until August 31) and cannot serve more than two years.

24 Council members are appointed by the:

Governor of Maryland (4);
President of the Maryland Senate (4);
Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates (4); and the
Governor’s Office for Children:
- Maryland Association of Student Councils (4)
- University System of Maryland Student Council (2)
- Maryland Higher Education Commission Student Advisory Council (2)
- Maryland Association of Local Management Boards (4)

Council members will be selected with consideration towards gender, race, and geographic area to ensure a diverse representation of Maryland’s youth statewide.

To prepare for your application, gather the following:

Completed application form
Resume or portfolio of work
Completed recommendation form

The deadline for applications is June 19, 2026.

APPLY NOW!

Application Info Sessions

The Council will host two virtual application info sessions. This is an opportunity for potential applicants to learn more about the Council, the application process, and ask current Council members questions.

Dates and registration is coming soon!

If you have questions, please contact Mysiki Valentine at [email protected].