Awards
Each year awards are given for outstanding achievements during the Legislative Weekend. Staff and other selected persons observe and evaluate performance throughout the sessions and make final selection on Saturday.
Outlined below are the award categories and the criteria for each. All recipients are selected with the YMCA Ground Rules and Program Goals in mind.
Premier Delegation
This award will be presented to each delegation that fulfills all of the following requirements:
- All paperwork is correct and on time
- All fees are completely paid on time
- Delegation has 100% adherence to the YMCA Ground Rules and Code of Conduct
- On-time attendance at every committee session
- Delegation models Caring, Respect, Honesty, and Responsibility
- Participation in the Press Corps – either by a full-time member or by submitting an article appropriate for publication
Outstanding Legislation
Two Bills from each Legislature will be selected based upon the following qualities:
- Excellent form
- Idea is clearly defined and explained
- Depth of research is apparent
Character Development Awards
Character Development awards are awarded BY delegates TO other delegates who demonstrate the YMCA’s four core values: Caring, Respect, Honesty, and Responsibility. The award recognizes not only those who embody the values of the YMCA, but delegates who rise to further strengthen the camaraderie between themselves and others during sessions. Recipients will be recognized by the committee leadership at appropriate times throughout the Legislative Weekend.
Outstanding Press Member
This award is presented to the person who, in the opinion of the Press Corps Advisor(s), demonstrates the most cooperation along with strong journalistic skills, in carrying out his/her duties. This person will also be a delegate to the Conference on National Affairs and will serve on its Press Corps.
Oustanding Statesperson
Criteria:
- Must be a Legislator. Officers and Clerks/Secretaries are not eligible
- Must be cooperative in her/his approach to legislation – showing a willingness to aid in the passage of valid legislation as well as working to strengthen weak Bills
- Must have an open, inquisitive mind toward all proposed legislation and not be limited to partisan concerns
- Must have a demonstrated knowledge of legislative rules, procedures, and courtesy
- Must be able to clearly convey ideas
- Must display a positive, respectful attitude toward the Program, Chamber proceedings, fellow delegates, and the facilities
- Must demonstrate a true concern for the quality of life in New Jersey when debating legislation; not simply be interested in getting favorite Bills passed or defeated
- Must display behavior consistent with Code of Conduct at all times
National Affairs Delegates
Each year, a delegation of outstanding students is selected to represent the State of New Jersey at the YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs held for one week during July at the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain, North Carolina. This conference brings together over 500 of the top Youth Legislators from across the United States to debate the current affairs of our nation.
Criteria
- Must have demonstrated knowledge of legislative procedure, rules, and courtesy
- Must have a concern for and an insight into, national and international issues
- Must have made a significant and positive contribution to the Program
- Must exhibit a willingness to interact with a wide variety of people
- Must demonstrate the four core values of the YMCA
