2 NH students chosen for US Senate Youth Program

CONCORD — On Dec. 10, 2025, the New Hampshire Department of Education announced the selection of two New Hampshire students to participate in the 64th Annual U.S. Senate Youth Program — Aadi Klukarni of Nashua High School South and Shelby McDonald of Plymouth Regional High School.

Klukarni and McDonald were selected by a panel of judges who evaluated the pool of top students nominated by principals throughout the state. Both students will receive a $10,000 college scholarship for undergraduate study, and they will represent the Granite State in an intensive study of the federal government in Washington, D.C., this month.

The U.S. Senate Youth Program is a merit-based program that allows two students from each state to attend. Delegate selection is administered by each state’s chief school officer in cooperation with high school principals. This year, there were 27 applicants from New Hampshire.

McDonald, a junior at Plymouth Regional High School, is vice-president of her class where she works to foster a greater sense of community at her school. She is a strong advocate for youth exchange and global citizenship, speaking at Rotary events and working with her school board to expand travel and language opportunities. She is known as a passionate and proactive leader whose commitment to service and global understanding sets her apart.

“The U.S. Senate Youth Program gives students an extraordinary chance to witness our nation’s government in action. Aadi and Shelby will represent New Hampshire with distinction in this prestigious program, and I look forward to seeing the meaningful contributions they will make in the years ahead. Congratulations to both of them,” said Education Commissioner Caitlin D. Davis.

The scholarships are provided by the Hearst Foundations. More than 6,300 students have participated in the U.S. Senate Youth Program since it was founded in 1962, including several well-known politicians. For more information, visit the U.S. Senate Youth Program website.

Andrew King, a junior at Bishop Brady High School in Concord, and Mohid Khan, a senior at Bishop Guertin High School in Nashua, have been chosen as alternates for this year’s program.