Mishawaka’s Next Generation of Leaders: Mayor Wood Swears In 2026–2027 the Mayor Dave Wood Youth Advisory Council

MISHAWAKA, IN – September 15, 2026 – The future of Mishawaka leadership was on display Monday evening as Mayor Dave Wood officially swore in the members of the 2026–2027 Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) during the opening portion of the Mishawaka Common Council meeting at City Hall.

The annual swearing-in marks the beginning of another year for a program designed to give Mishawaka-area high school students a meaningful voice in local government while providing hands-on opportunities to learn about leadership, public service and their community.

This year’s MYAC brings together passionate, service-oriented students who have stepped forward and accepted the responsibility of serving their community. Throughout the coming year, members will work directly with Mayor Wood, City officials, department leaders and one another while developing projects and initiatives intended to make a positive difference in Mishawaka.

“Every year, I am encouraged by the young people who are willing to raise their hands and say, ‘I want to help,’” Mayor Wood said. “MYAC isn’t just about learning how City government works. It is about giving our young people a seat at the table, listening to their ideas and giving them an opportunity to turn those ideas into action. These students are part of Mishawaka’s future, but they also have something important to contribute to our community right now.”

Following their swearing-in, members will begin organizing the new Council and will have an opportunity to run for a number of MYAC leadership positions, with officers elected by their fellow members.

The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council has become an important part of the City’s commitment to developing young leaders. Since its creation, MYAC has introduced students to municipal government, community service, civic engagement and collaborative leadership while giving members the opportunity to work on projects with tangible benefits for Mishawaka.

For Mayor Wood, the program is also about helping young people understand that local government is personal.

“Our decisions affect the streets they travel, the parks they enjoy, the neighborhoods they call home and the community they may someday choose to raise their own families in,” Wood said. “When young people become involved early, they begin to understand that leadership isn’t about having a title. It is about showing up, listening, working together and serving others. That’s the Mishawaka Way.”

With the ceremonial swearing-in complete, the work now begins. Members will soon gather for their first official MYAC meeting, elect their leadership team and begin identifying priorities and projects for the 2026–2027 year.

The City of Mishawaka congratulates each of this year’s MYAC members and thanks them for making the commitment to serve.

Exciting things are ahead for the 2026–2027 Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council—and for Mishawaka’s next generation of leaders.

#MayorsYouthCouncil #FutureLeaders #MishawakaWay #CityofMishawaka