The Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute (PR/HYLI ) provides Hispanic students across New York State with hands-on legislative experience, fostering their critical thinking, writing, public speaking, and leadership skills. This year, Chatham High School student Joselin Castellanos proudly represented her community at the 35th annual PR/HYLI from March 8-10, 2025. Over 250 students from seven delegations gathered in Albany for an enriching experience that included:
Team-building activities
A Mock Assembly session in the NYS Assembly Chamber
A student recognition dinner and awards ceremony
Workshops on the theme: Perseverance and the Power of Democracy
Among this year’s honorees, Joselin received a SOMOS scholarship and was named an Outstanding Student Delegate for her exemplary leadership. She also served as Majority Whip in the Mock Assembly.
On Monday, March 10, Joselin also had the honor of representing the Capital District Delegation at the New York State Board of Regents Meeting. During the session, she was recognized for her participation in the PR/HYLI Program and had the invaluable opportunity to observe firsthand how state education leaders make critical decisions to advance and shape the future of education in New York.
Congratulations to Joselin for her outstanding achievements!