July 08, 2013
As part of its efforts to encourage a sustainable Capital Region, the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) is proud to announce that Michael Stackrow, of Poestenkill was selected to take part in the 2013 American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Youth Summit to Advance Public Transportation: Generation Green on Board. The summit, hosted by APTA was held June 23-27, 2013 at Trinity Washington University in Washington, D.C. The summit gave participants an opportunity to learn about public transportation and the benefits it has for our communities. Stackrow is about to enter his junior year at LaSalle Institute in Troy. He is the son of David and Karen Stackrow.
Over 120 applications were received for the program and Stackrow was one of 50 selected to travel for a week in Washington, D.C. Participants were encouraged to explore the environmental benefits of public transportation, to understand the role that local, state and federal policies play in transit development, and to appreciate the diverse careers available in the transit industry. The participants heard from transit advocates, members of Congress, officials from the U.S. Department of Transportation and transit agency and business representatives. Most important was the networking among the participants from around the county, talking about their communities, the environment and how transit connects people to jobs and opportunity.
“It is a pleasure to see this involvement from young people who are interested in our industry,” said CDTA CEO Carm Basile. “Actively engaging young adults to learn about the benefits of public transportation will encourage them to use it and advocate for it throughout their lives, contributing to a healthier economy and a sustainable future.”
In addition to hearing from elected and appointed officials, Youth Summit members toured local transit systems to hear from officials about ways to promote healthy communities through public transportation development and use. Interactive educational sessions gave students some of the tools they need to be successful advocates for more mobility options.
“Michael Stackrow, La Salle Institute, “Class of 2015” makes us proud on a regular basis. As one of only 5 New Yorkers selected to discuss the future of both energy conservation and mass-transportation in the nation's Capital, Michael will be able to share with his classmates and region his experiences as part of the American Public Transportation Association Youth Summit,” said La Salle Institute Director of Development Richard Eddings. Young difference makers like Michael are an example of the kind of leadership we instill in our young men, represented through the idea, "Builders of Boys, Makers of Men."
APTA holds the Youth Summit every other year. Students are selected from across the country based on criteria that demonstrates their interest in public transportation and the environment. Applicants are required to draft essays on public transportation subjects including a discussion on why we need to create and maintain environmentally friendly communities and what would make public transportation more appealing to a broader group of young adults.
