Stand Up, Speak Up, Shape Texas
A half-day policy summit designed to empower the next generation of Texas leaders.
150+
Attendees
75+
Students
10+
Speakers
5HR
Workshops
Join 200 others in Arlington, TX for a half day of inspiring youth to voice their opinions on public policy and develop confidence in public speaking.
Let’s join together
10+
Speakers
5HR
Workshop
Magic is believing in yourself.
What you will get?
Visionary
Speakers
Statewide
Events
Level-up Your Skills
Help Find Your Tribe
Texas youth face a growing disconnect from civic skills and policy literacy—only a fraction ever engage in meaningful public discourse. Research shows that participating in policy debate elevates reading comprehension, critical thinking, and college outcomes.
Stand Up, Speak Up, Shape Texas transforms how young voices are heard—giving them real policy issues to explore with mentorship, clarity, and confidence.
Supported by
Event
Schedule
October 18th @ UT Arlington
Check In
Breakfast
08:30AM - 09:00AM
Arrive, receive name tags and materials, and enjoy a light breakfast.
Welcome
By Dr. Tiffany Clark - SBOE District 13
09:00AM - 09:15AM
Sets the stage for the day's challenge.
Special Guest
09:15AM - 09:30AM
Introduction of special guests or elected officials at the event.
Policy Research
By Policy Sage
09:30AM - 10:30AM
Teams are assigned a policy and provided research resources.
Campus Tour
By UT Arlington Welcome Center
10:30AM - 11:15AM
A brief, engaging break and guided tour of the UTA campus.
Lunch
11:20AM - 11:45AM
Review presentation over lunch.
Wrap Up Session
11:50AM - 12:45PM
Review and closeout presentation.
Showcase & Debate (Rd I)
12:45PM - 1:15PM
Parents and community members are invited back to watch the main event.
Showcase & Debate (Rd II)
1:15PM - 1:40PM
The final two teams take the stage to present their policy arguments.
Awards & Wrap Up
1:40PM - 2:00PM
Awards are presented, encouragement and closing remarks.
Our Visionary
Speakers
Dr. Tiffany Clark
State Board of Education District 13
Senator Royce West
Texas State Senate – District 23
Commissioner Roderick Miles
Tarrant County, Precinct 2
Mayor Jim Ross
Arlington, Texas
Councilwoman Barbara Odom-Wesley
Arlington, Texas
Councilwoman Nikkie Hunter
Arlington, Texas
Assoc. Judge Danielle Diaz
Dallas County District 330th
Judge Hector Garza
Dallas County District 195th
Judge Kenneth Sanders
Tarrant County Precinct 7
Sarah McMurrough
Arlington ISD Trustee - Place 1
LaTasha Henderson
Constituent Outreach Advocate "US Rep. Jasmine Crockett"
Get Involved
Conference for youth that focuses on community and unforgettable experiences.
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