STATEHOUSE (Dec. 4, 2009) - For the tenth consecutive year, high school students from Tipton County got an up close and personal view of state government during the Kenley Leadership Conference held here last week.

Sen. Luke Kenley (R-Noblesville) said having students meet with legislators and participate in discussions about key state issues is always one of the best times of the year for him.

"It's always encouraging to see bright young people take an interest in state government," Kenley said. "My hope is this leadership conference will inspire them to maintain that interest and become leaders in their communities. Perhaps, some day, they may even decide to seek public office themselves."

A total of 25 senior class and student body presidents from Kenley's senate district attended the conference on state and local government. The students from Tipton County included: Clay Hicks and Annie Compton-Craig of Tipton High School.

During the conference, students met with Gov. Mitch Daniels, discussed higher education with the Commissioner of Higher Education, Teresa Lubbers, and took a tour of the Statehouse. Then, the students focused on what it takes to become a leader through several educational sessions held in the Indiana Senate Chambers.

Participating in this year's legislative discussion were State Sens. Travis Holdman (R-Markle) and Connie Lawson (R-Danville) along with State Rep. Cindy Noe (R-Indianapolis).

After the success of the past ten years, Kenley said he looks forward to the next leadership conference - and later to the time when, one of this year's participants might be the host."

"I think we'll be in good hands when the reigns of leadership are passed on to this generation," Kenley said.

Sen. Kenley represents Senate District 20, which includes portions of Grant, Hamilton, Howard, Madison and Tipton counties.

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Photo: Annie Compton-Craig, Sen. Luke Kenley and Clay Hicks

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