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Home My WebLink AboutItem 5.3 2026-27 Youth Advisory Committee and Parks and Community Services Commission Student Representative Appointments Agenda Item 5.3 STAFF REPORT CITY COUNCIL Page 1 of 3 DATE: May 19, 2026 TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers FROM: Colleen Tribby, City Manager SUBJECT: 2026-27 Youth Advisory Committee and Parks and Community Services Commission Student Representative Appointments Prepared by: Shalini Reddy, Recreation Coordinator EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The City Council will consider confirmation of the Mayor’s appointments to the Youth Advisory Committee for the 2026-27 term. The City Council will also consider confirmation of the Mayor’s appointment of the Student Representative to the Parks and Community Services Commission for the 2026-27 term. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Confirm the Mayor’s appointments to the Youth Advisory Committee and the Student Representative to the Parks and Community Services Commission for the 2026 -27 term. FINANCIAL IMPACT: None. DESCRIPTION: Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) Appointments The current YAC term expires on May 31, 2026. During February and March 2026, recruitment efforts took place to encourage middle and high school students to apply for appointments for the upcoming term of office. The openings were promoted through outreach to local middle and high schools, social media platforms, the City’s website, and targeted email communications to maximize community awareness and applicant interest. Per the Bylaws and Rules of Procedure, the YAC includes a minimum of nine and a maximum of 13 youth members, plus three alternates. At least three must be from middle school and six from high school. If there are insufficient applications to meet the middle school to high school 37 Page 2 of 3 ratio, the Mayor may make appointments from a ny of the grade levels. Fifty-eight applications were received by the deadline. Applicant grade levels for the 2026-27 term were as follows: Table 1. Applicant Grade Levels Middle School Application #’s High School Application #’s Grade 6 (1) Grade 9 (8) Grade 7 (0) Grade 10 (12) Grade 8 (5) Grade 11 (21) Grade 12 (11) Mayor Hu recommends the appointment of the following middle and high school students to the YAC. Students with an asterisk (*) are current members: Table 2. Recommended Appointments Applicants School Grade 1. Abhiram Vegesna Dublin High School 12 2. Allison Pyle The Quarry Lane School 10 3. Amber Wang Emerald High School 11 4. Emma Jacob Fallon Middle School 8 5. Hrihaan Bhutani* Emerald High School 12 6. Kaitlin Weiss* Dublin High School 11 7. Kashyap Bavimane Emerald High School 11 8. Neha Dhulipala Fallon Middle School 8 9. Rex Wan Dublin High School 12 10. Shriyadita Poduval Emerald High School 10 11. Sophie Ma* Dublin High School 12 12. Tirtha Sivanandam* The Quarry Lane School 11 13. Fiona (Yue) Mou Brave Christian High School 12 Alternate Applicants School 14. Anya Gangineni Emerald High School 10 15. Kimaya Sivanandam Cottonwood Creek School 6 16. Shivanshi Singh Wells Middle School 8 Parks and Community Services Commission Student Representative Appointment The current term of the Student Representative to the Parks and Community Services Commission expires on June 30, 2026. Throughout February and March 2026, Staff and current members joined in the recruitment effort, encouraging high school students to submit applications for the forthcoming term of office. Four applications were received by the deadline. Mayor Hu recommends the appointment of Vishwak Reddy Etikela as the Student Representative to the Parks and Community Services Commission for the term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring June 30, 2027. Vishwak will be a senior at Emerald High School. 38 Page 3 of 3 STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE: None. NOTICING REQUIREMENTS/PUBLIC OUTREACH: The City Council Agenda was posted, and a copy of the Staff Report was sent to the applicants being considered for appointment. ATTACHMENTS: 1) Youth Advisory Committee 2026-27 Applications 2) Parks and Community Services Commission 2026-27 Student Representative Applications 39 Attachment 1 40 41 42 Scouting America Troop 904 Dublin, CA 94568 March 27, 2026 TO: Dublin Youth Advisory Committee RE: Recommendation – Abhiram Vegesna I highly recommend Abhiram Vegesna as a committee member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have known Abhiram for the past five years as a Scout in Scouting America’s Troop 904 in Dublin, California . I’ve enjoyed getting to know him better as he has advanced in our troop. Abhiram currently holds the rank of Life Scout. Obtaining this rank emphasizes his dedication and efforts to live the values we ask all Scouts to abide; especially, his duty to help others at all times. He has been an active member of our troop and has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities through his involvement in various community service projects, as well as troop outings, leading the other Scouts. As part of Abhiram’s advancement, he is required to hold various leadership positions in our Troop. From November 2024 to May 2025, Abhiram was our Senior Patrol Leader, overseeing our Patrol Leader’s Council, which makes up of a dozen scouts. His respect and support of his fellow Scouts in our Troop demonstrate his potential to step up and support all citizens in our community. Participating on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee would be a great use of his skills he’s been developing. Abhiram will be very successful in any service opportunity he pursues. Our troop is very fortunate to have Abhiram now helping our younger Scouts learn how to be model citizens of our community. Sincerely, Tim Gaddis Scoutmaster, Troop 904, Dublin, California 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 100 Civic Plaza March 25, 2026 Dear Members of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Board, It is my pleasure to recommend Allison Pyle for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I ﬁrst met Allison in 2025 through the City of Dublin Youth & Society Camp, and since that time, she joined my bi-monthly youth mentoring group for those interested in public service. Her consistent attendance and inquisitive mind impresses me each time we meet. Through these meetings—every other Monday for an hour and a half during my open office hours—Allison participates thoughtfully in discussions on the city of Dublin’s events, local policy issues, and community challenges. She has demonstrated an exceptional ability to analyze complex topics, contribute original ideas, and collaborate with others to reﬁne solutions. Because of this, I felt comfortable connecting her with a developer to work on the Fallon Economic Development Zone, where she showed maturity and strategic thinking in exploring ways to support local economic growth. Allison is not only deeply engaged in civic matters but also excels as a student and community leader. She is a rising sophomore with a remarkable balance of creativity, leadership, and initiative. As editor of her school’s online literary magazine, she fosters collaboration and inspires her peers. As the lead of outreach for her robotics club, she demonstrates organizational skill and a commitment to empowering others. Beyond these achievements, Allison pursues music through piano, participates in both school and club soccer, and engages in a wide variety of extracurricular activities that reﬂect her dedication, teamwork, and well-rounded character. Allison embodies the qualities Dublin seeks in its youth leaders: curiosity, integrity, vision, and a deep desire to make a positive impact. Her energy, perspective, and maturity set her apart, and I am conﬁdent she will be an extraordinary asset to the Youth Advisory Committee. She is truly an exemplary example of the kind of young leader who can help shape Dublin’s future. 51 100 Civic Plaza I strongly recommend Allison for this position without reservation. She is truly an exemplary example of the kind of engaged and forward-thinking young leader Dublin needs. Sincerely, John Morada Councilmember for the City of Dublin, District 3 52 53 54 55 March 27, 2026 To Whom It May Concern. It’s my honor to recommend Amber Wang for a position on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and coaching Amber for the past 2 years, having served as the assistant tennis coach at Emerald High School in Dublin. I believe Amber would be an excellent addition to the Youth Advisory Committee. During my time working with Amber, I have been impressed by her dedication and hard work to her craft. On the tennis court, she is a driven, hard-working athlete. As Emerald High School’s #1 player, Amber competes and wins against other schools’ top players, often in the highest-pressure and most demanding position. Doesn’t matter if she’s playing in a tournament final or an exhibition match, she brings the same calm, composed, and confident presence, regardless of the score, you wouldn’t know if she’s winning 6-0 or trailing 0-6. Tennis is considered one of the most mentally demanding sports, requiring players to problem-solve alone on the court in real time. Amber excels in this environment. She is constantly analyzing situations during matches, adjusting her strategies, and finding ways to win under pressure. I’ve seen her make smart tactical changes mid-match, such as simplifying her shot selection, targeting the middle of the court, and reducing unforced errors, which allowed her to shift momentum and secure the victories. These qualities, such as composure, adaptability, and decision-making under pressure are exactly what you want in a representative for the Youth Advisory Committee. Amber ’s impact extends beyond her individual performance on the tennis courts. I can tell Amber cares deeply about her high school tennis team. High school tennis success is not just individual, but collectively as a team. As the team’s top player, she embraces her leadership by always showing up, giving 110% effort in practice, supporting teammates across varsity and junior varsity levels, bringing positive energy to the team environment, and celebrating her teammates. Amber is the type of person you would want to bring on to a committee. She’s a good leader, she’s a team player, and most importantly, she cares. What makes Amber even more impressive is her ability to balance a demanding schedule. In addition to high school tennis, she is actively involved in band, academic coursework, private tennis lessons, USTA tournaments, and various internships. Even with these commitments, she continues to excel academically and perform at a high level across all areas. Amber’s ability to manage her time effectively, stay organized, and remain committed to improvement shows her maturity and strong sense of responsibility. In conclusion, I have no doubt that Amber will make an impact on the Youth Advisory Committee. She is thoughtful, driven, and genuinely cares about her peers and community. I strongly recommend her and am confident she will make Dublin proud. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Sincerely, Jason Wu Assistant Tennis Coach Emerald High School 56 March 27, 2026 To Whom It May Concern, I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Amber Wang in support of her application to the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the privilege of being Amber ’s advanced math teacher at Emerald High School for the past two years, during which time I have witnessed her growth into a thoughtful, disciplined, and highly motivated student. Amber consistently demonstrates determination and a strong work ethic in the classroom, approaching challenges with resilience and a genuine desire to improve. She balances her academic responsibilities while also excelling as a decorated student-athlete, a testament to her exceptional time management and commitment. Beyond the classroom, Amber has shown a deep commitment to her community and leadership development. She has actively engaged in civic initiatives, including working with the Dublin Mayor’s office, participating in environmental youth programs, and supporting community outreach efforts. Her ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and take initiative makes her especially well-suited for a youth-driven forum like this committee. Amber is not only capable of contributing thoughtful ideas, but she also has the maturity and professionalism to help bring those ideas to life. I am confident that Amber will be a valuable addition to the Youth Advisory Committee. She brings a rare combination of academic dedication, leadership experience, and genuine enthusiasm for serving her community. I strongly recommend her and believe she will positively impact both the committee and the broader Dublin community. Sincerely, Rebecca Lee Mathematics Instructor, Emerald High School leerebecca@dublinusd.org 57 Nicole Meehan Social Sciences Dublin High School Dublin Uniﬁed School District meehannicole@dublinusd.org 10th of March, 2026 Letter of Recommendation for Amber Wang To whom it may concern, My name is Nicole Meehan, and I am Amber’s World History teacher for the 2025-26 school year. If what you are seeking is a level-headed, kind, conﬁdent, and passionate individual, then you do not need to look further than Amber Wang. I have known Amber for the entirety of this current school year, and she has been nothing but consistent in her work and attitude. She is someone I can count on to help with tasks in class and with her friends. Her leadership experience both in and out of school exceeds that of which I have seen of my students in the past, and it shows in how she goes above and beyond in all tasks. Her calm demeanor allows her peers to feel comfortable interacting with her, and while also knowing that she will be the one to act on their concerns either for them or with them. If you have any more questions about Amber, I would be more than happy to talk with you. Sincerely, Nicole Meehan 58 59 60 61 March 27, 2026 To Whom It May Concern, It is my pleasure to recommend Emma Jacob for the Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the opportunity to know Emma as a neighbor for the last seven years, and I have watched her grow into an exceptionally responsible and civic-minded young leader. Emma stands out for her genuine commitment to our community. Her willingness to step up and assist with local civic efforts as a dedicated and reliable volunteer at such a young age is rare. She approaches every task with a level of maturity and organization that is well beyond her years. Whether she is engaging with neighbors or helping a campaign, she handles herself with poise and a clear sense of duty. Her background as a Patrol Leader in the Scouts and her recent acceptance into the Leadership Class at Fallon Middle School demonstrate her ability to help lead her peers. Emma understands the importance of teamwork and is not afraid to take initiative. In our neighborhood, she is known for being dependable and always ready to lend a hand. I am confident that Emma will bring a thoughtful and energetic voice to the Youth Advisory Committee. She represents the very best of Dublin’s youth, and she has my full support in this endeavor. Please feel free to contact me if any additional information is required. Sincerely, Kashef Qaadri Councilmember 62 63 64 65 March 27th, 2026 To Whom it May Concern: I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Kaitlin Weiss in support of her application to the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). I have had the privilege of knowing her for over a year, having taught her in my 9th grade Health class. During her time in my class, Kaitlin consistently stood out among her peers. She participated significantly more than many other students, demonstrating not only strong engagement but also a genuine interest in the material. Her willingness to contribute thoughtfully to discussions enriched the learning environment for everyone. What truly distinguishes Kaitlin is her natural leadership ability. She has an impressive capacity to connect with a wide variety of students, making others feel included and valued. Whether working in group settings or participating in class-wide discussions, she fosters a positive and respectful atmosphere. Her peers clearly respect her, and she leads by example through both her actions and her attitude. Additionally, Kaitlin has shown that she genuinely cares about the topics presented in class, particularly those related to health, well-being, and community. She approaches issues with maturity and empathy, qualities that are essential for meaningful involvement in a youth advisory role. I am confident that Kaitlin would be a valuable addition to the Youth Advisory Committee. Her leadership skills, inclusivity, and commitment to making a positive impact would allow her to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to the community. Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information. Sincerely, Holly Garcia Holly Garcia www.dublinusd.org/dhs 66 67 68 69 March 27, 2026 To Whom It May Concern, I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation in support of Neha Dhulipala’s application for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. Neha is a dedicated, responsible, and motivated individual who consistently demonstrates strong leadership and a genuine commitment to her community. Neha has a natural ability to take initiative and lead within group settings. She approaches collaborative work with confidence while ensuring that all voices are heard, making her both an effective leader and a supportive team member. Her ability to cooperate easily with others allows her to contribute positively in diverse environments, an essential quality for serving on a council that represents the perspectives of youth. In addition to her leadership skills, Neha has shown remarkable dedication through her long-term involvement in taekwondo, where she has also served as a teacher ’s assistant for the past five years. This role reflects not only her discipline and perseverance but also her willingness to mentor and guide others. Her commitment to helping younger students develop their skills speaks to her strong sense of responsibility and community involvement. Neha is also actively engaged in speech and debate, which has strengthened her communication skills, critical thinking, and ability to articulate ideas effectively. These experiences will allow her to contribute thoughtfully and confidently in discussions and decision-making processes within the Youth Advisory Committee. Academically strong and a member of our Yearbook team, Neha is a hardworking and determined student who takes her responsibilities seriously. She consistently strives for excellence and approaches challenges with a positive and growth-oriented mindset. Overall, Neha Dhulipala is an outstanding candidate who embodies the qualities of leadership, cooperation, and dedication. I strongly believe she would be a valuable addition to Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee and would contribute meaningfully to its mission. Sincerely, Rachael Guinther Teacher, Fallon Middle School 70 MASTER KIM’S TAEKWONDO ACADEMY Master Jungtae Kim March 26, 2026 Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Recommendation Letter for Neha Dhulipala Dear Members of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am writing to highly recommend Neha Dhulipala for a position on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee for the upcoming year. As her Taekwondo Master at Master Kim’s Taekwondo Academy (MKTA), I have had the privilege of watching Neha grow over the past 6 years into a dedicated martial artist and an outstanding young leader. Neha is a key member of our Leadership Team and currently serves as an assistant instructor while training for her 3rd-degree black belt. She consistently demonstrates initiative and responsibility in all aspects of her role. She regularly assists with belt tests by helping organize students, ensuring the facility is prepared, and supporting the smooth execution of testing. In addition, Neha volunteers her time each week to mentor lower-belt students, helping them improve their techniques while building their conﬁdence. She leads by example, always showing respect, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility. Notably, Neha recently served as a sparring referee at a Taekwondo tournament held in Dublin. Her ability to take on such a role reﬂects her maturity, fairness, and deep understanding of the sport. At MKTA, we place a strong emphasis on integrity and community service, and Neha truly embodies these values. I am conﬁdent that she will bring the same dedication, leadership, and positive energy to the City of Dublin. Sincerely, Master Jungtae Kim Head Master / Owner, MKTA 2688 DUBLIN BLVD, DUBLIN CA 94568 (415) 769 1127 DUBLINCA@MASTERKIMTAEKWONDO.COM 71 72 73 74 March 20, 2026 Dear Admissions Committee, It is with great pleasure that I write this letter of recommendation for Kashyap Bavimane. I have known Kashyap for about a year now and he is easily one of the top students in my English II class. Academically, he is gifted and demonstrates a level of understanding beyond his years. Kashyap is admired by his classmates and is always helping out others. Kashyap is great with others and is always the first to volunteer for speeches, share-alouds, and class discussions. He is a natural leader that carries confidence and a sense of humor that people cannot ignore. This is why I believe he will be a great asset to your program. It is with full confidence that I recommend Kashyap Bavimane to serve on the Youth Advisory Committee for the City of Dublin. Please feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions. Kind regards, Eliana Montanio Advanced English II Teacher montanioeliana@dublinusd.org C. 5108622607 75 76 77 78 March 28, 2025 To Whom It May Concern, I am honored to write this letter of recommendation for Rex Wan, a dedicated and passionate student who is applying to become the Student Representative for the Parks and Community Service Commission of Dublin. I have had the pleasure of teaching Rex in my Integrated Marketing Communications class during the 2024-2025 school year, and in this time, he has demonstrated a strong sense of responsibility, empathy, and a deep commitment to community service. Rex’s passion for environmental awareness and community involvement is evident through his volunteer work and leadership in sustainability efforts. He dedicated time over the summer to clean community parks, a self-driven initiative that began when his father encouraged him to be more engaged outside the home. Through this experience, Rex gained firsthand insight into the lack of environmental responsibility within the community, which further motivated him to work on a climate project addressing Dublin’s environmental issues. His project will be showcased at an upcoming summit, where he will present solutions to improve local sustainability efforts. Beyond his environmental advocacy, Rex exemplifies leadership and teamwork. As a DECA member, he actively participates in the chapter ’s events; earning recognition for his work in the team decision-making event at our local mini conference. Additionally, his role as a mentor for younger students in piano and math speaks to his patience, adaptability, and dedication to helping others succeed. Academically, Rex is a high-achieving student, maintaining a 4.06 GPA and earning the recognition of Scholar-Athlete. His work ethic extends beyond the classroom, as he consistently goes above and beyond, even in everyday acts such as staying after class to clean up and plug in the Chromebooks when his classmates fail to do so. These small yet meaningful efforts reflect his deep sense of responsibility and care for his community. Rex’s background further strengthens his commitment to environmental advocacy. Having moved from Hong Kong at the age of 10, he witnessed firsthand the effects of severe pollution in a densely populated urban environment. This personal experience has given him a unique perspective on the importance of sustainability. With his unwavering dedication, collaborative spirit, and leadership qualities, I have no doubt that Rex would be an outstanding addition to the Parks and Community Service Commission of Dublin. Sincerely, Bailey Udoutch Business and Marketing Instructor, Tri-Valley ROP Dublin DECA Advisor Dublin High School udoutchbailey@dublinusd.org 79 11020 Bollinger Canyon Rd STE F, San Ramon CA 94568 Date: March 11, 2026 Subject: Letter of Recommendation for Rex Wan To the Youth Advisory Council Selection Committee, It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Rex Wan for a position on the Youth Advisory Council. As the owner of T4 in San Ramon, I have had the privilege of supervising Rex and observing his growth, not only as a dedicated employee but as a young leader who possesses a rare sense of civic responsibility and maturity. In the fast-paced environment of a local small business, Rex has distinguished himself as much more than a staff member. He is a proactive problem-solver who views our store as a vital part of the San Ramon community. While many students his age focus solely on their assigned tasks, Rex consistently seeks to understand the "why" behind our operations and how we can better serve our diverse clientele. This inquisitive nature is never confrontational; rather, it reflects his deep-seated desire to improve systems and ensure the best possible experience for those around him. One of Rex’s most impressive attributes is his executive maturity . I recall a specific incident involving a sudden power outage at our shop. While others were uncertain and waited for direction, Rex immediately stepped into a leadership role. He managed safety protocols, communicated calmly with disappointed customers, and coordinated the team—all without needing to call me for instructions. This ability to remain composed and lead during a crisis is a testament to his readiness to tackle the complex issues often faced by a Youth Advisory Council. Furthermore, Rex’s role at T4 places him at the heart of our youth community. He interacts daily with students, parents, and local residents, giving him a unique perspective on the needs and concerns of his peers . He does not just "work" at the shop; he observes, listens, and thinks critically about how to make a positive impact. He has earned the respect of his colleagues through his collaborative spirit and his ability to bridge the gap between individual needs and organizational goals. I am confident that Rex will bring a thoughtful, disciplined, and highly motivated voice to your Council. He possesses the integrity to represent his community and the initiative to turn ideas into action. I give Rex Wan my highest recommendation. Please feel free to contact me at 510-415-9200 or t4u.bollingercanyon@gmail.com if you have any further questions. Sincerely, Chris Lo Store Owner T4 San Ramon 11020 Bollinger Canyon Road, Unit F, San Ramon, CA 94582 Phone: 510-415-9200 Email: t4u.bollingercanyon@gmail.com 80 www.dublinusd.org/dhs DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL 2017 GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL 8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 ● 925-833-3300 ● FAX 925-833-3322 March 6, 2025 To whomever it may concern, It is my great pleasure to recommend Rex Wan for the Youth Advisory Council. I have known Rex since the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year and is delighted to be his Advanced Algebra 2 teacher at Dublin High School. During this time, I've watched Rex grow into an outstanding individual who exceled in both his academic and personal pursuits. Rex's personal strengths are as impressive as his intellectual accomplishments. He is an active, outgoing presence in class with a great sense of humor. Rex is the perfect person to get a group project rolling, but he also knows how to sit back and let others take the lead. Rex makes sure to always be attentive and productive throughout lessons by asking questions during lectures. All of his assignments are submitted punctually and reflected comprehensive and dedicated work. His cheerful nature and openness to feedback means he is always learning and growing as a learner, an impressive strength that will continue to serve him well in the future. Rex has my highest recommendation for the Youth Advisory Council. He has demonstrated excellence in all that he puts his mind to, whether it is persevering through difficult Advanced Algebra 2 problems, being a member of the DHS Track and Field team, or volunteering with Next Generation Innovators where he taught middle school students about engineering. Rex’s endless curiosity combined with his willingness to take risks, leads me to believe there will be no limit to his growth and achievements. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at leejung@dublinusd.org. Sincerely, Ms. Erica Lee Math Teacher Dublin High School 81 82 83 84 Date: March 18, 2026 To whom it may concern: I have the pleasure of being Shriyadita Poduval’s Freshman Advanced English teacher at Emerald High School, Dublin, CA this year. Shriyadita is an impressive student in many ways. She stays focused on her work, submits high-quality writing, takes on leadership roles in class, and works well in groups. I’m impressed by her drive, her desire to improve, and her strong organization skills. Shriyadita has a strong love for learning that impresses me. She is positive, cheerful, and brings joy to the classroom. Shriyadita is great at analyzing literary texts and offering thoughtful responses. She often sparks meaning ful discussions that help the whole class. In group activities and projects, she consistently goes above and beyond what is expected of her. In addition to her academics, she is a well-rounded individual with a variety of interests. She is active in various projects at our school, including Speech & Debate. She has also taken an active role in both the History and Science Olympiad competitions at Emerald Hig h. I am conﬁdent that Shriyadita will do very well in any program that she is a part of. She is responsible, kind-hearted, energetic, driven, and willing to learn. I wholeheartedly recommend her to the program for which she is applying. Sincerely, Dr. Geeta Subramonian Emerald High School Freshman Advanced English English Language Arts Department subramoniangeeta@dublinusd.org 85 86 87 88 DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL 2017 GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL 8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 • 925-833-3300 • FAX 925-833-3322 March 18, 2026 To the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Panel, I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Sophie Ma as she applies for the 2026-2027 Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I strongly believe that Sophie would be an outstanding addition to your committee. Sophie has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic through her volunteering efforts, extracurricular involvement, and leadership roles. She is highly organized and committed. Through her discipline and ambitious nature she is able to balance multiple commitments while maintaining a high level of performance. In her leadership experiences, Sophie has proven herself to be a true team player. She collaborates effectively with peers, listens thoughtfully to diverse perspectives, and contributes meaningful ideas. Her ability to work well with others while also taking initiative when needed makes her especially well-suited for a role that requires representing and advocating for youth v01ces. Sophie possesses a genuine desire to make a positive impact. Whether through community service or school activities, she consistently seeks opportunities to contribute and improve the environment around her. I highly recommend Sophie Ma. I am confident that she will bring enthusiasm, insight, and strong leadership to your committee and make meaningful contributions throughout her term. Thank you for your time and consideration. Cyndi Valone School Counselor valonecyndi@dublinusd.org www.dublinusd.org/dhs 89 90 91 92 93 The Quarry Lane School Dublin Campus: Jr. Kindergarten-12 th Grade 6363 Tassajara Rd. Dublin, CA 94568 P (925) 829-8000 F (925) 829-4928 Pleasanton Campus East: Infant/Toddler, PreS and PreK 3750 Boulder St. Pleasanton, CA 94566 P (925) 846-9400 F (925) 462-1066 www.quarrylane.org Pleasanton Campus West: Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten 4444B Black Ave. Pleasanton, CA 94566 P (925) 462-6300 F (925) 462-1066 To the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Team, I am honored to recommend Tirtha Sivanandam for appointment to the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the privilege of working closely with Tirtha through robotics, I can say with full confidence that she would be an exceptional addition to this committee. What stands out most about Tirtha is that her leadership is steady, thoughtful, and grounded in responsibility. In robotics, she serves in the demanding role of Drive Coach, a position that requires quick decision-making, strong communication, composure under pressure, and the trust of the entire team. It is one of the most challenging student leadership roles because it requires balancing strategy, teamwork, and real-time problem-solving in an intense competitive setting. One quality I have especially appreciated is the way Tirtha handles the responsibilities of Drive Coach in real time. In competition, that role demands quick decisions, constant communication, and the ability to stay composed while the entire team is looking to you for direction. I have seen her manage those moments with maturity and focus, helping keep the team organized, steady, and solution-oriented even when the pressure is high. That kind of calm judgment and presence is not easy to teach, and it says a great deal about her character. Just as important, Tirtha brings a calm, respectful, and thoughtful presence to group environments. She knows how to speak up when needed, but she also knows how to listen. She is not driven by being the loudest voice in the room; she is driven by wanting the group to arrive at the best outcome. In settings where ideas need to be discussed, refined, and turned into action, she brings both maturity and good judgment. These are qualities that matter deeply in a committee setting, especially one that exists to represent youth perspectives in a positive and constructive way. I believe Tirtha would be particularly strong on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because she reflects the qualities this role truly needs. She is responsible, collaborative, respectful, and solution-oriented. She understands how to contribute meaningfully in a team setting, how to think about the needs of others, and how to help turn ideas into action. She would not simply hold the title of committee member – she would actively strengthen the committee through her insight, professionalism, and sincere commitment to serving others. The committee’s work involves giving input on youth programs, supporting activities, and helping address issues that “Education is a lifelong commitment” ® 94 The Quarry Lane School Dublin Campus: Jr. Kindergarten-12 th Grade 6363 Tassajara Rd. Dublin, CA 94568 P (925) 829-8000 F (925) 829-4928 Pleasanton Campus East: Infant/Toddler, PreS and PreK 3750 Boulder St. Pleasanton, CA 94566 P (925) 846-9400 F (925) 462-1066 www.quarrylane.org Pleasanton Campus West: Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten 4444B Black Ave. Pleasanton, CA 94566 P (925) 462-6300 F (925) 462-1066 affect youth in the community, and Tirtha is exactly the kind of young leader who can do that with both intelligence and heart. I confidently recommend Tirtha for this leadership opportunity and believe she would be an excellent representative for the youth of Dublin. Please feel free to contact me if additional information is needed. Regards, Lina Tannous APCSA, Engineering Teacher Robotics Program Coordinator Email: ltannous@quarrylane.org P (925) 829-8000 W Quarrylane.org Preschool – Grade 12 College Preparatory School Campuses In Pleasanton & Dublin, Ca “Education is a lifelong commitment” ® 95 96 97 98 99 Eleana Brumage Chemistry Teacher brumageeleana@dublinusd.org March 27, 2026 I recommend Vaishnavi Badi for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Her passionate integrity in her academic and extracurricular commitments makes her an ideal candidate. In my Honors Chemistry class, Vaishnavi demonstrates analytical thinking and academic independence. She tackles complex problems with conﬁdence, even when no one else’s hand is up, asking questions that deepen discussion. As a leader in her laboratory group, she applies feedback to strengthen her understanding while ensuring his team works towards their shared goals. Her preparation for assessments and laboratory investigations, effective collaboration skills, and consistent composure set her apart from her classmates. Vaishnavi’s dedication to learning extends into her leadership and service work, as well. As the developer of a business club for her peers, key contributor to the fundraising branch of her school leadership team, and consistent volunteer in non-proﬁt clubs on campus, she balances many rewarding responsibilities in order to advocate for positive change. She supports ideas that translate into action, often making difﬁcult decisions that beneﬁt others. Vaishnavi demonstrates initiative and resiliency. While many of my honors students struggle with mistakes by interpreting them as failure, Vaishnavi proudly uses them as stepping stones. Her academic improvement in my class alone has been stellar, yet her enthusiasm to take on challenges remains constant. These experiences show intellectual initiative and a willingness to apply classroom knowledge to authentic challenges presented on your committee. Vaishnavi brings maturity, reliability, and curiosity to every environment she enters. She takes initiative, communicates clearly, and follows through on responsibilities. She balances all of her many interests without compromising her identity, and for that, I recommend her for the Youth Advisory Committee without reservation. Sincerely, Eleana Brumage 100 101 102 103 CENTRE FOR SOCIO-LEGAL STUDIES FACULTY OF LAW Manor Road Building, Manor Road, Oxford, OX1 3UQ Tel: +44 (0) 1865 284220 www.law.ox.ac.uk/ Re: Anya Gangineni Recommendation Letter 13 March 2025 To Whom It May Concern, I am honored to write this letter in enthusiastic support of Anya Gangineni. As part of the Cambridge Future Scholar Programme (CCIR), Anya worked under my mentorship, displaying exceptional academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and resilience. Over the course of four months, she engaged in research on acid attacks in India, demonstrating dedication to understanding complex socio -legal issues. Despite working alongside peers much older than herself, Anya held her own, showing maturity, confidence, and a strong willingness to learn. Throughout the program, Anya actively engaged with intricate topics such as gender -based violence, legal responses to crime, and the broader socio-cultural implications of justice policies. She tackled dense academic literature and participated thoughtfull y in discussions. Her ability to critically analyze media portrayals of violence and connect theoretical frameworks to real -world issues reflected her developing analytical skills. What set Anya apart was her ability to work seamlessly with older peers while maintaining her own distinct voice and perspective. She was not intimidated by the experience or knowledge of her fellow students; instead, she contributed meaningfully to discus sions and consistently brought fresh perspectives to the table. Her maturity, adaptability, and confidence made her a respected and valued member of the cohort. Additionally, Anya demonstrated a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. She met every deadline with diligence and took feedback constructively, refining her work throughout the program. She actively sought mentorship, attended every session with enthusiasm, and consistently asked thought- provoking questions, reflecting her passion for academic exploration and public policy. Anya Gangineni is an outstanding individual with immense potential. Her ability to engage deeply with research, work collaboratively with peers of varying experience levels, and think critically about pressing social issues makes her an asset in any academ ic or professional setting. I am confident that she will thrive in a challenging environment and make meaningful contributions in her next steps. I wholeheartedly recommend her. Anya aims to become a lawyer – she is well-suited to work towards achieving this. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require any further information. Sincerely, Caitlyn McGeer Research Fellow | Faculty of Law | University of Oxford E: caitlyn.mcgeer@csls.ox.ac.uk M: +44 (0) 7960084100 104 27 March 2026 To Whom It May Concern: Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am writing to recommend Anya Gangineni as a candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the privilege of teaching Anya this year as her English 1 teacher, and during this time I have been able to witness her dedication and enthusiasm grow from the beginning of the year. Anya doesn’t just talk about community - she shows up for it. From cleaning local spaces and managing food distribution at local food banks, Anya has demonstrated a consistent, hands-on commitment to improving the lives of Dublin residents. This dedication is mirrored in my own classroom, where she is not only an effective collaborator but also a student whom others seek out for help. In groups, Anya makes sure that each group member has the opportunity to share their ideas. In a one-on-one setting, Anya is a useful tutor and work buddy, consistently pushing her classmates to do their best. This drive for success is mirrored in her time as part of the Speech & Debate program here as well. Anya is an active member of the Emerald High School Speech and Debate team, where she has honed her ability to articulate complex arguments and speak up about critical issues, which is a skill that will pay dividends as she works to represent youth voices in our city. Anya is a self-starter who balances independence with a strong sense of responsibility both inside and outside the classroom. Whether she is competing in high-stakes tournaments, volunteering locally, or participating in class, she approaches every task with a hardworking and humble attitude, which makes her an ideal candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Board. Please feel free to contact me at fauriakathryn@dublinusd.org if you have any additional questions regarding Anya Gangineni and her suitability for the position. Sincerely, Kathryn A Fauria 105 106 107 108 COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Theodore Dykzeul Principal Dear Members of the Youth Advisory Committee Selection Panel, I am writing to offer my strong recommendation for Kimaya Sivanandam, a fifth-grade student in my class, for membership on the Youth Advisory Committee. As her teacher, I have had the pleasure of observing her growth academically, socially, and as a young leader within our school community. Kimaya currently serves as our classroom representative on the Cottonwood Creek Student Council, where she consistently demonstrates responsibility, initiative, and a genuine commitment to representing her peers. She takes this role seriously, actively listening to others’ ideas and concerns and communicating them thoughtfully and respectfully. One of her most impressive accomplishments is founding a club called “Mini Moguls.” Through this initiative, she has created opportunities for fellow students to learn about entrepreneurship, including developing products, understanding basic financial concepts like investing, and building money management skills. Her ability to turn an idea into a structured, engaging program reflects both creativity and leadership well beyond her years. In the classroom, Kimaya is exceptionally curious and motivated. She frequently uses her free time to research topics of interest and voluntarily presents her findings to her classmates. These presentations are not only informative but also demonstrate her strong communication skills and confidence. She is a deep and critical thinker who asks meaningful questions and considers multiple perspectives, qualities that are essential for contributing to discussions about community issues and youth programming. I am confident that Kimaya would be an outstanding addition to the Youth Advisory Committee. Her leadership experience, entrepreneurial mindset, intellectual curiosity, and genuine desire to make a positive impact align perfectly with the committee’s mission. She has the maturity and insight to provide valuable input on youth services, help promote meaningful activities, and contribute thoughtfully to initiatives that benefit her peers and the broader community. Sincerely, Cecilia Jones 5th Grade Teacher Cottonwood Creek TK8 School 2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 109 110 111 112 1 Summit Tutoring Center 4430 Willow Road, Suite #C Pleasanton, CA 94588 March 24th, 2026 Dear Members of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Commi ee Selec on Commi ee, I am pleased to write this le er of recommenda on in strong support of Fiona Mou for appointment as a commi ee member candidate to the City of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Commi ee for the 2026–2027 term. As Fiona’s college counselor from Summit Tutoring Center, I have had the opportunity to work closely with her and observe her intellectual curiosity, leadership, and genuine commitment to crea ng meaningful, community-centered impact. Fiona is a student who not only demonstrates ini a ve, but also approaches leadership with inten onality and long-term strategic thinking. She was recently admi ed to the UC Berkeley Business Academy for Youth (B-BAY) for Summer 2026, a highly selec ve program emphasizing analy cal thinking, collabora on, and real-world problem solving. In addi on, she has been elected DECA Club President at Brave Chris an School for the 2026–2027 school year—an achievement that reﬂects both her peers’ trust in her leadership and her ability to guide teams toward shared goals. Beyond academic and leadership accomplishments, Fiona has demonstrated meaningful involvement in community engagement. As her school’s Student Ambassador, she represents her school by suppor ng incoming families and fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment. Through this role, she has developed strong communica on skills, an ability to listen ac vely, and a though ul approach to represen ng the needs of a broader community—quali es that are essen al in a civic advisory se ng. What dis nguishes Fiona most is her ability to translate ideas into sustainable, community- driven ini a ves. As a co-founder of the nonproﬁt Tomorrow’s Onset Project (TOP), she has moved beyond short-term service models to build long-term partnerships with schools for the visually impaired, including her collabora on with the FCT School for the Blind Children in Nigeria. Her work reﬂects a mature understanding of impact—grounded in listening, iden fying real needs, and developing scalable solu ons. This mindset aligns directly with the Youth Advisory Commi ee’s mission of providing though ul, youth-informed input on programs and community priori es. A er reviewing recent Youth Advisory Commi ee agendas, it is clear that the Commi ee’s work requires both analy cal thinking and civic responsibility. For example, the Commi ee regularly 113 2 evaluates Youth Mini-Grant proposals and funding recommenda ons, requiring members to assess community impact, feasibility, and sustainability . Fiona’s experience designing long-term ini a ves through TOP uniquely posi ons her to contribute meaningful insight in these discussions. Addi onally, the Commi ee places strong emphasis on youth mental health and wellness ini a ves, including presenta ons and programming focused on emo onal well-being and access to resources. Fiona brings an empathe c and forward-thinking perspec ve that would allow her to contribute though ully to these conversa ons, par cularly in designing ini a ves that are both impac ul and sustainable. The Commi ee’s work also involves collabora on through ad hoc commi ees, event planning, and community engagement eﬀorts, such as beneﬁt events and youth forums . Fiona has already demonstrated these competencies through her leadership experiences—eﬀec vely coordina ng teams, engaging stakeholders, and execu ng structured ini a ves. She is not only capable of genera ng strong ideas, but also of turning those ideas into ac onable outcomes. Equally important, Fiona possesses the maturity and professionalism required to operate within a formal civic framework. The Youth Advisory Commi ee follows structured procedures— including public comment, agenda-based discussions, and governance guidelines such as Rosenberg’s Rules of Order and the Brown Act—to ensure transparency and respec ul dialogue. Fiona’s ability to listen a en vely, synthesize diverse perspec ves, and contribute though ully would make her an eﬀec ve and respec ul par cipant in this environment. In every interac on I have had with Fiona, she has demonstrated integrity, ini a ve, and a strong sense of responsibility toward her community. She is exactly the type of student who will not only beneﬁt from this opportunity, but who will ac vely elevate the work of the Youth Advisory Commi ee. I recommend Fiona Mou without reserva on for the City of Dublin’s Youth Advisory Commi ee. I am conﬁdent that she will be a valuable, engaged, and impac ul member of the 2026–2027 cohort. Please feel free to contact me if addi onal informa on is needed. Sincerely, _________________________ Edwen Lee Head Counselor Summit Tutoring Center (925) 251-9888 114 1 Summit Tutoring Center 4430 Willow Road, Suite #C Pleasanton, CA 94588 March 24th, 2026 Dear Honorable Chair and Members of the Parks & Community Services Commission, I am pleased to offer my strong and unreserved recommendation for Fiona Mou as a candidate for the City of Dublin’s Parks & Community Services Commission Student Representative for the 2026–2027 term. As Fiona’s college counselor, I have worked closely with her over the past year and have had the opportunity to observe her character, judgment, and sustained commitment to community-centered work. Among the many high-achieving students I work with, Fiona distinguishes herself through her ability to translate awareness of community needs into thoughtful, structured, and sustainable action. She is the co-founder of the non-profit organization Tomorrow ’s Onset Project (TOP), a student-led initiative supporting schools for the visually impaired. Through this work, she has demonstrated not only initiative, but also a strong sense of civic responsibility - engaging directly with stakeholders, listening carefully to community input, and contributing to efforts that prioritize long-term accessibility and inclusion. This level of intentionality closely aligns with the City of Dublin’s mission to promote a high quality of life and foster an inclusive and equitable community. Fiona’s leadership experience further supports her readiness to serve in a municipal advisory capacity. Her selection for the UC Berkeley Business Academy for Youth (B-BAY) for Summer 2026 reflects her growing understanding of organizational decision-making, resource allocation, and program development. Additionally, her election as DECA Club President for the 2026–2027 school year demonstrates the trust her peers place in her leadership, as well as her ability to represent and guide a diverse student community with professionalism and accountability. Beyond academic and leadership accomplishments, Fiona has demonstrated meaningful involvement in community engagement. As her school’s Student Ambassador, she represents her school by supporting incoming families and fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment. Through this role, she has developed strong communication skills, an ability to listen actively, and a thoughtful approach to representing the needs of a broader community - qualities that are essential in a civic advisory setting. Based on my review of recent Commission agendas and materials, the work of this body requires thoughtful engagement with a wide range of community priorities, including evaluating public programs and services, reviewing community reports, gathering and responding to public 115 2 input, and providing recommendations on initiatives such as recreational programming, facility planning, and community events. The Commission also plays an important role in ensuring that programs and services remain accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of Dublin residents. Fiona is particularly well-suited for this role. She brings a practical and forward-thinking perspective on how community services impact residents across age groups - from youth programming and recreational access to inclusive community initiatives. She is capable of evaluating proposals not only from an outcomes-based perspective, but also through the lens of equity, sustainability, and long-term community benefit. Equally important, Fiona conducts herself with professionalism, respect, and sound judgment. She listens carefully to differing perspectives, communicates clearly and thoughtfully, and contributes in a constructive and measured manner - qualities that are essential when working alongside Commissioners, City staff, and members of the public. She understands that public service requires both collaboration and restraint, and she approaches leadership not as a position of authority, but as a responsibility to serve. Fiona Mou is a responsible, motivated, and community-minded individual who I am confident will represent the interests of Dublin’s youth with integrity, maturity, and care. I recommend her without reservation and believe she will contribute meaningfully and effectively as a Student Representative on the Parks & Community Services Commission. Thank you for your time and consideration. Please feel free to contact me if any additional information would be helpful. Sincerely, _________________________ Edwen Lee Head Counselor Summit Tutoring Center (925) 251-9888 116 117 118 119 March 26, 2026 To the Youth Advisory Committee: I am writing to express my approval for a student, , as a candidate for the Youth Advisory Shivanshi Singh Committee. Shivanshi has been in the Leadership program at Wells for this school year! She has been an active participant in different Committee work throughout the school year. She is very responsible and reliable. She gets along well with other students, and she treats others with respect. She is a super positive young woman, she demonstrates a lot of patience everyday, and she has the best intentions. She is focused on her academics as well. I know I can count on Shivanshi to get the job done well. Therefore, I recommend Shivanshi Singh for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Please contact me if you have any questions bungerdenise@dublinusd.org or 831-588-2883. Respectfully, Denise Bunger Teacher, Advisor, Activities Director Wells Middle School 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 To the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, March 19, 2026 I am writing this to enthusiastically support Aditi’s application for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As her Leadership teacher, I’ve seen her in action day in and day out, and she is exactly the kind of student you want representing our local youth. Aditi is an incredibly strong worker, but what really sets her apart is how organized and dependable she is. To give you a concrete example, Aditi recently helped plan our "Fallontines" dance. This was a massive undertaking with over 300 students in attendance. Aditi managed six different sub-groups to ensure everything from decorations to logistics ran smoothly. Because of her oversight, the entire event happened with zero incidents—which is no small feat in a middle school environment. Beyond the big events, she is a consistent and excellent team member on smaller projects, too. She has a great knack for reaching out to people and organizations outside of our school, handling those professional conversations with a maturity that’s rare for her age. You can give her a goal, and she’ll find a way to make it happen. On a personal level, Aditi is just a wonderful human being. She is: ● Thoughtful: She really considers how her decisions affect the student body. ● Kind: She makes everyone around her feel heard and included. ● Trustworthy: If Aditi says she’s going to do something, I can consider it done. I truly believe she will be an excellent addition to the committee. She isn't just joining to check a box—she genuinely cares about the Dublin community and has the work ethic to actually get things done. I can’t recommend her highly enough. Best, Lorrin Harris FMS 6th Grade Core, 7th LIT, & 8th TLC educator harrislorrin@dublinusd.org 128 129 130 131 Dear Members of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Ananya Sriram. As her Destination Imagination Team Manager, I have had the opportunity to work closely with Ananya for the past 4 years and observe her growth, leadership, and dedication firsthand. Ananya is an exceptionally thoughtful and motivated individual who consistently demonstrates creativity, responsibility, and strong collaboration skills. In our team setting, she takes initiative while also ensuring that every team member feels heard and valued. She has a natural ability to balance leadership with teamwork, often stepping up to guide discussions, organize ideas, and keep the group focused on our goals. One of Ananya’s greatest strengths is her problem-solving ability. Destination Imagination challenges require innovative thinking under pressure, and Ananya approaches these situations with both confidence and creativity. She is not afraid to share original ideas, and she encourages others to think outside the box as well. Her positive attitude and persistence help the team navigate challenges effectively. Beyond her skills, Ananya demonstrates maturity and a genuine commitment to her community. She is respectful, reliable, and always willing to put in the effort needed to make a meaningful impact. I have no doubt that she would bring valuable insight, dedication, and enthusiasm to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I strongly recommend Ananya Sriram for this opportunity. She is a capable and driven student who will contribute positively and thoughtfully to any group she is a part of. Sincerely, Stacie Manuel Destination Imagination Team Manager 132 133 134 135 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to recommend Anay Metha for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Anay is currently in my Honors Chemistry class at Emerald High School. Anay is an intelligent, dedicated, and personable young man. As Anay’s teacher, what stands out most about Anay is his motivation and energy. He works extremely hard and frequently participates in class, whether to answer questions or ask them to ensure that he understands everything. A team player, Anay is very articulate, a skill honed by his active participation in Speech and Debate organizations. Anay’s career goal is to work in the fields of economics and public policy. His strong interest in these fields is shown by his participation in the Finance & Economics Club and the Quantitative Asset Management Club. Anay has a passion for community service. He is mentored by a Dublin Council Member (John Morada), and attends the bi-weekly Dublin council meetings. Because of this experience, Anay’s other extracurricular activities, and Anay’s personal qualities, I very enthusiastically recommend Anay for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I may be reached at 408-505-4930 or lourisstephanie@dublinusd.org. Warm regards, Stephanie Louris, PhD 136 To whom it may concern, It is my pleasure to recommend Anay Metha for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have worked with Anay as his debate coach this past year, where I have personally seen his growth into a varsity-level debater. Anay was a brilliant and hardworking student, reflected in both his day-to-day work ethic and his tournament achievements. He was always present and early to every practice, ready to ask questions and take notes on lectures. He puts his utmost effort into every single drill and practice round, treating them as reflections of real tournament debates. After every tournament, he always sought room for improvement, no matter the results. At the end of the year, he demonstrated foresight and commitment to debate by seeking advice on transitioning into varsity debate. I was thoroughly impressed by his continued determination to perform better at every chance possible. Beyond being an excellent debater, Anay is a wonderful person. He is kind, curious, collaborative, intelligent, and passionate. He has demonstrated an eagerness to help his teammates during preparation for all topics. He also showcased a vast understanding of economic and political concepts, learned both through debate and his extracurriculars. All in all, I am confident that Anay would be a superb candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Sincerely, Leonardo Jia UCLA leonardo.jia@gmail.com 137 March 25, 2026 RE: Recommendation for Anay Metha, Dublin Youth Advisory Committee To Whom It May Concern: I first met Anay during a 1-week summer program called the Youth Society Bootcamp, led by Dublin student leaders in the summer of 2025. The program brought together Dublin students and challenged them to develop a community-focused initiative within a short timeframe. Each group was given one week to collaborate, research, and present an idea that could improve the Dublin community. I served as a Keynote speaker to help students develop their ideas further, and Anay reached out to me to mentor him. He proposed a thoughtful idea on expanding emergency shelter infrastructure to meet the needs of Dublin’s growing population. Through his research, he identified that the City of Dublin currently has three emergency centers, all located in West Dublin. He recognized a clear gap and advocated for planning a fourth facility in East Dublin to serve future residents. This is the sort of thinking we want of our public leaders. We began meeting regularly, and during these sessions, along with other peers, he explored a wide range of local and regional issues, including e-bike safety, solar energy, public safety through earthquake awareness, the cost and impact of fireworks cleanup, inflation, and the relationship between federal and local government authorities. I was impressed by Anay across the many discussions we shared. He came prepared every time. He was actively engaged, asking pointed questions, connecting ideas, and offering his own well-reasoned perspectives on real issues facing our community. Whether the conversation touched on local infrastructure, public policy, or the relationship between the city and the federal government, Anay demonstrated strong knowledge of political and economic issues and how they affect the community. What impressed me most was his initiative. He did not wait to be handed a direction; he identified a real gap in Dublin's emergency shelter infrastructure, researched it independently, and advocated for a concrete solution. Anay is thoughtful, respectful, and deeply committed to making a difference. I am fully confident he will be an outstanding addition to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I 138 recommend Anay without hesitation and would be glad to provide additional information if needed. Sincerely, John Morada Councilmember City of Dublin 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin, CA 94568 (925) 833-6663 | (925) 833-6651 FAX 139 140 141 142 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to recommend Anay Metha for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Anay is currently in my Honors Chemistry class at Emerald High School. Anay is an intelligent, dedicated, and personable young man. As Anay’s teacher, what stands out most about Anay is his motivation and energy. He works extremely hard and frequently participates in class, whether to answer questions or ask them to ensure that he understands everything. A team player, Anay is very articulate, a skill honed by his active participation in Speech and Debate organizations. Anay’s career goal is to work in the fields of economics and public policy. His strong interest in these fields is shown by his participation in the Finance & Economics Club and the Quantitative Asset Management Club. Anay has a passion for community service. He is mentored by a Dublin Council Member (John Morada), and attends the bi-weekly Dublin council meetings. Because of this experience, Anay’s other extracurricular activities, and Anay’s personal qualities, I very enthusiastically recommend Anay for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I may be reached at 408-505-4930 or lourisstephanie@dublinusd.org. Warm regards, Stephanie Louris, PhD 143 March 27, 2026 Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am thrilled to recommend Anaya Mehta, who I have taught in Advanced English at Dublin High School. During the time I’ve known her, Anaya has shown that she is a hardworking and thoughtful student who cares about both her schoolwork and her community. At the beginning of the year, Anaya was more quiet, but as time passed I saw her push herself to speak more and share her ideas in class. She became more confident in discussions and started participating more in group work. I could see her pushing herself to grow and be more outspoken in class, something I appreciated as a teacher. Outside of the classroom, Anaya is involved in several activities that show her interest in helping others. She is the treasurer of the Mind4Youth Dublin Chapter, where she helps raise awareness about mental health. In addition, she took part in the Dublin Youth Mental Health Forum, where she helped run a booth and talk to people about the club. On top of that, she is part of DECA and qualified for the state level, and she participates in Best Buddies, where she spends time with students with special needs and builds friendships with them. One thing that stands out about Anaya is that she really wants people to feel included. She understands how important it is to feel like you belong, and she tries to create that for others through what she does. I think this is something that would make her a great fit for the Youth Advisory Committee. Overall, I recommend Anaya Mehta. She is responsible, kind, and always www.dublinusd.org/dhs 144 willing to improve. I believe she would be a strong addition to your program. Please do not hesitate to accept her, and feel free to contact me if you need any additional information! Sincerely, Carmen Chan Dublin High School English Teacher www.dublinusd.org/dhs 145 146 147 148 The Quarry Lane Schools Dublin Campus: Jr. Kindergarten-12th Grade 6363 Tassajara Rd. Dublin, CA 94568 P (925) 829-8000 F (925) 829-4928 Pleasanton Campus East: Infant/Toddler, PreK, JrK, & K 3750 Boulder St. Pleasanton, CA 94566 P (925) 846-9400 F (925) 846-9495 www.quarrylane.org Pleasanton Campus West: Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten 4444A Black Ave. Pleasanton, CA 94566 P (925) 846-9400 F (925) 84 March 20, 2026 Letter of Recommendation for Angad Hayer Dear Youth Advisory Council Selection Committee, I am pleased to write in strong support of Angad’s application to the Dublin Youth Advisory Council. Angad is a thoughtful, driven, and community-minded student who consistently seeks opportunities to make a meaningful impact. Through his work with the American Cancer Society, Angad has demonstrated an impressive level of leadership and initiative. He currently serves as Head of Fundraising for youth initiatives across California and leads event planning efforts in Alameda County - roles that speak to both his organizational skills and his commitment to service. In these positions, he has collaborated with community partners, including efforts connected to the City of Dublin, to promote awareness around important public health issues such as tobacco use. His outreach to Below Market Rate and senior multi-family housing communities reflects both his initiative and his ability to engage thoughtfully with diverse populations. Academically, Angad is a strong and dedicated student who approaches his work with focus and integrity. He is equally known for his kindness and humility, consistently contributing positively to his school community and supporting those around him. What distinguishes Angad is his genuine desire to serve others paired with the ability to turn ideas into action. He brings both a leadership mindset and a collaborative spirit - qualities that would make him an excellent addition to the Youth Advisory Council. I am confident that he will contribute meaningful perspectives and actively engage in initiatives that benefit the youth of Dublin. I give Angad my highest recommendation and am confident that he will make a positive and lasting impact as a member of the Youth Advisory Council. Sincerely. Olivia Schneider Co-Director of College and Academic Counselor Quarry Lane School “Education is a lifelong commitment” 149 150 151 152 153 Sdfsdfdsfsdf To the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, March 23, 2026 It is my distinct pleasure to recommend Angammai Vijay Arumugam for a position on the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). As an English Language Arts teacher at Emerald High School, I have had the privilege of knowing Angammai as my personal pupil throughout this academic year. In that time, I have witnessed ﬁrsthand the leadership, maturity, and dedication required to represent the youth of Dublin. In the classro om, Angammai stands out for an exceptional ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively. Whether participating in Socratic seminars or collaborating on group projects, she demonstrates a natural aptitude for communication and critical thinking. She does not simply complete tasks; she takes the initiative to elevate the quality of work for her entire team, ensuring that every voice is heard while keeping the group focused on its goals. What strikes me most about Angammai is her commitment to advocacy and service. She possesses the rare ability to balance academic excellence with a genuine passion for community involvement. Her collaborative spirit and proactive nature make her an ideal candidate for a program that thrives on student leadership and youth persp ectives. I have full conﬁdence that Angammai will be a dedicated and insightful member of the YAC, bringing the same level of commitment to the City of Dublin that she brings to our campus at Emerald High. I recommend her without reservation. Sincerely, Kjelene Deakin English L anguage Arts Emerald High School Dublin, CA 154 Dear Selection Committee, It is my distinct pleasure to recommend Angammai for YAC. As her Head Varsity Swim Coach, I have had the unique vantage point of watching her evolve into one of the most impactful leaders I have coached. As a two-year Varsity Swim Captain, Angammai has been the backbone of our program, demonstrating a level of maturity, discipline, and advocacy rare in a high school student. Angammai’s leadership is defined by her ability to balance high performance with radical inclusivity. Now in her second year as Captain, she is responsible for leading warmups and setting the daily tone for the deck. However, her true contribution lies in the culture she has built. She has a natural gift for creating a positive environment where every swimmer feels seen and supported. She doesn't just lead by command; she leads by connection, consistently motivating her teammates to push through difficult sets while ensuring the sport remains a source of joy for them. In my time working with her, Angammai has proven to be an incredibly reliable athlete and an extension of the coaching staff. This was most evident during our three-day tryout period at the start of the season. Tryouts are a high-pressure environment for both the swimmers and the coaching staff, yet Angammai stepped up to serve as a vital partner in the process. For three days, she was constantly in motion—observing lane cycles, leading drills, and providing immediate encouragement to those vying for a spot. More impressively, she provided me with detailed, nuanced feedback on the swimmers. She helped me rank those trying out not just by their times in the water, but by their coachability and potential fit within our team culture. Her ability to analyze performance and communicate those insights effectively was invaluable, showcasing a level of professional responsibility far beyond her years. Beyond our school pool, Angammai has distinguished herself as a leader on a regional scale through her role as an Athlete Representative at Pacific Swimming. In this capacity, she acts as a vital bridge between her peers and the organization’s leadership, ensuring that the athlete’s voice is represented in broader decision-making processes. This role requires a high degree of communication and diplomacy, and Angammai has excelled at representing her fellow swimmers with both professionalism and passion. The discipline required to balance rigorous academics with the demands of varsity athletics and multiple leadership roles cannot be overstated. Angammai’s time management skills are exceptional, but it is her character that truly sets her apart. She is unfailingly respectful, approachable, and supportive. She handles the pressures of competition with grace and treats every teammate, coach, and official with genuine kindness. Angammai is a rare talent who elevates every group she is a part of. I recommend her with the highest level of confidence, knowing she will bring the same dedication and leadership to your community that she has brought to our swim team. 155 Sincerely, Erica Broudy, Head Varsity Swim Coach (Emerald High School) 156 157 158 159 160 March 28, 2025 To Whom It May Concern, I am honored to recommend Aryav Shastri for a position on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the privilege of teaching Aryav in Integrated Marketing Communications during the 2025-2026 school year, where I have witnessed his leadership, initiative, and commitment to serving his community. Aryav is an exceptional student who actively seeks out opportunities to make a difference. His dedication to youth advocacy is evident through his involvement in the Dublin Mayor Council, where he was personally selected by the mayor to participate. Through this experience, he has consistently engaged in discussions about community development and contributed insightful ideas on youth involvement. Aryav’s commitment to addressing mental health awareness is equally impressive. He played a pivotal role in organizing a mental health summit at the Dublin Senior Center, collaborating with multiple organizations to provide resources and strategies for students. His ability to plan, coordinate, and execute such a significant event speaks to his leadership and initiative. Additionally, Aryav has demonstrated strong communication and organizational skills through his role in the National Honor Society. As an apprentice for the Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations, he has successfully managed digital outreach, engaging students and the broader school community. His work in DECA, serving as a National Career Development Conference (NCDC) voting delegate, has also equipped him with invaluable experience in teamwork and decision-making. Aryav’s leadership extends beyond academics into athletics, where he was recognized as the “Best Teammate” in Dublin’s Track & Field program. His ability to motivate peers, maintain morale, and hold teammates accountable underscores his teamwork and responsibility—qualities that will serve him well as a Youth Advisory Committee board member. Aryav is a dedicated and passionate individual who will bring valuable insight, initiative, and leadership to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I strongly support his application and am confident that he will make a lasting impact on the community. Please feel free to contact me for any further information. Sincerely, Bailey Udoutch Business and Marketing Instructor, Tri-Valley ROP Dublin DECA Advisor Dublin High School udoutchbailey@dublinusd.org 161 March 28, 2025 To Whom It May Concern, I am honored to recommend Aryav Shastri for a position on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the privilege of teaching Aryav in Integrated Marketing Communications during the 2025-2026 school year, where I have witnessed his leadership, initiative, and commitment to serving his community. Aryav is an exceptional student who actively seeks out opportunities to make a difference. His dedication to youth advocacy is evident through his involvement in the Dublin Mayor Council, where he was personally selected by the mayor to participate. Through this experience, he has consistently engaged in discussions about community development and contributed insightful ideas on youth involvement. Aryav’s commitment to addressing mental health awareness is equally impressive. He played a pivotal role in organizing a mental health summit at the Dublin Senior Center, collaborating with multiple organizations to provide resources and strategies for students. His ability to plan, coordinate, and execute such a significant event speaks to his leadership and initiative. Additionally, Aryav has demonstrated strong communication and organizational skills through his role in the National Honor Society. As an apprentice for the Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations, he has successfully managed digital outreach, engaging students and the broader school community. His work in DECA, serving as a National Career Development Conference (NCDC) voting delegate, has also equipped him with invaluable experience in teamwork and decision-making. Aryav’s leadership extends beyond academics into athletics, where he was recognized as the “Best Teammate” in Dublin’s Track & Field program. His ability to motivate peers, maintain morale, and hold teammates accountable underscores his teamwork and responsibility—qualities that will serve him well as a Youth Advisory Committee board member. Aryav is a dedicated and passionate individual who will bring valuable insight, initiative, and leadership to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I strongly support his application and am confident that he will make a lasting impact on the community. Please feel free to contact me for any further information. Sincerely, Bailey Udoutch Business and Marketing Instructor, Tri-Valley ROP Dublin DECA Advisor Dublin High School udoutchbailey@dublinusd.org 162 163 164 165 March 27, 2026 To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to recommend Avani Vankadaru for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I am a 7th grade core teacher at Wells Middle School in Dublin. Avani has been in my English class since August 2025. Avani is an excellent choice for the Youth Advisory Committee. Avani is always cooperative and polite in class. She completes her work in a timely manner and always to the best of her abilities. She is engaged with her classmates and will volunteer in class. Do not take my brevity for lack of enthusiasm. There are very few students for whom I would take time out of my teaching day to write a letter of recommendation. But when Avani told me what she was applying for, I knew it would be a shame if her application were turned down because I could not take time to write this letter. Avani would be an exceptional choice for your committee. All the best, Mrs. Alana McBride She/her/hers (Why does this matter?) 7th Grade Core Wells Middle School Dublin Unified School District 166 167 168 169 To Whom It May Concern, It is a pleasure to recommend Avika for your Youth Advisory Committee. She is an exceptionally smart and well-rounded student who possesses a rare blend of analytical maturity and civic passion. Avika is an ideal candidate because of her keen observation that youth are often sidelined in conversations that directly affect their lives. Rather than accepting this status quo, she is driven to ensure that young people have a seat at the table where major input is gathered and valued. She has a natural ability to advocate for her peers with poise and clarity, ensuring that the youth perspective is treated as a necessity rather than an afterthought. I have witnessed her passion for civic engagement through her active participation in class discussions, an original speech she delivered in favor of funding space exploration, and her insightful comments during a theoretical debate regarding medical fraud. I am conﬁdent that Avika will be a dedicated, nuanced, and proactive member of your committee. I recommend her without reservation. Kind regards, Athena Karantzalis she/her English and Video Production Teacher Emerald High School, room F225 karantzalisathena@dublinusd.org 170 171 172 173 174 Sdfsdfdsfsdf March 23, 2026 To Whom it May Concern, Avika Vyawahare defines what it means to be an Aero. She takes pride in her academics and the leadership roles she has at Emerald High School (EHS) and within the Dublin community. Avika is a stellar student at EHS and has earned a cumulative GPA of 4.05. She has excelled in our rigorous college prep program and continues to challenge herself by taking her first Advanced Placement course this year. Her extracurricular activities keep Avika on campus from sun up to sun down. She has been a leading figure in our student government since her freshman year and has been a key member in planning and implementing our school-wide events here at EHS. In addition to this, she has also served as one of 13 members of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment for all youth in Dublin. It takes a dedicated student to be able to manage all of this, but Avika’s organization and time management skills are stellar! Avika Vyawahare is mature, a self-starter, works well both independently as well as in a team setting, and has a strong moral compass. I fully believe Avika would be an ideal candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. She is an upstanding young woman and I look forward to hearing of all her accomplishments in the future. Please feel free to contact me should you require any further information. Sincerely, Dianna Heise Head Counselor Emerald High School Ph: (925) 551-4040 Ext. 4820 175 176 177 Dear City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am pleased to recommend Bhavik Kakkar for a position on the Youth Advisory Committee for the 2026–2027 term. I have been the teacher of Bhavik in 8th Grade Algebra 1. It is an advanced course where he has consistently demonstrated that he is at the top of his class. He has a strong commitment to learning. Bhavik regularly goes above and beyond in class participation, contributing thoughtful questions and insights that further discussions for the class. He consistently performs at the top of his class on tests and quizzes, reflecting both his strong work ethic and deep understanding of the math. Beyond his academic achievements, Bhavik shows responsibility, maturity, and a positive attitude in the classroom. He is respectful, dependable, and always willing to put in extra effort to succeed. His dedication and initiative make him a standout student and a positive role model for others. I am confident that Bhavik will bring the same level of commitment, leadership, and enthusiasm to the Youth Advisory Committee. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions. Sincerely, James Tyler Hermens 178 179 180 181 EMERALD HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC FOUNDATION Empathy | Academics | Fellowship Dublin Unified School District • Emerald High School 27 March 2026 To Whom It May Concern, It is my distinct pleasure, as President of the Emerald High School Academic Foundation (EAF), to enthusiastically recommend Bhavya Dwivedi, an 11th-grade student at Emerald High School. Bhavya served as a student ambassador at Emerald Summit '26 — EAF's flagship STEAM conference — and her contributions were exceptional in every regard. EAF is a DUSD-approved Student Community Organization dedicated to academic enrichment, career readiness, and leadership development. This year, EAF presented Emerald Summit '26 — a student-driven STEAM conference that brought together 175+ participants from 5 schools, across 20+ interdisciplinary tracks, with student research presentations, hands-on workshops, and expert mentorship spanning science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Bhavya stepped up as Discipline Lead for NovaSphere — one of the Summit's most comprehensive disciplines, encompassing presentations on Core Science & Mathematics, sustainability exhibits on Climate Change, and a live expert panel discussion on emerging topics in science and the environment. Bhavya was responsible for coordinating student presentations, organizing exhibits, and helping facilitate a panel discussion with external speakers. She approached these responsibilities with reliability and attention to detail, ensuring that the sessions were well-prepared and ran smoothly during the event. Bhavya worked effectively with her peers and demonstrated a steady and thoughtful approach to leadership. She was organized in her planning and responsive to feedback, which helped keep the team aligned and on track. Her ability to manage multiple components of the discipline contributed to the overall success of Novasphere. I appreciate Bhavya’s efforts and commitment in supporting the Summit. She is a dependable and capable student who would be a strong addition to academic programs, internships, or other opportunities she chooses to pursue. Please feel free to reach out if you need any additional information. Warm regards, Bharat Paliwal President, Emerald High School Academic Foundation (EAF) president@ehsacademics.org 182 183 184 185 March 27, 2026 To the Youth Advisory Board Application Committee: I am honored to write this letter of recommendation for Bhuvan Krishnamohan in support of his application to the Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Bhuvan for the past three years as his Health teacher as well as in my role as advisor for the Tobacco Use Prevention Education (TUPE) program at Emerald High School. Bhuvan has served as our founding president for three years now and has been a driving force behind the program’s development and success. From the beginning, Bhuvan distinguished himself as a highly responsible and reliable leader. He is someone who not only follows through on commitments, but inspires others to do the same. His deep understanding of community engagement, youth advocacy, and connectedness has shaped the culture of TUPE on our campus, making it a meaningful and visible presence for students. Our program started in 2023 with only about 20 freshmen, and the following year, we had over 80 applicants, and over 100 this past fall. It has grown into a well-respected peer program on our campus, largely due to his leadership. One of Bhuvan’s most defining strengths is his ability to vision-cast and ideate for TUPE activities. He excels at seeing the big picture and imagining how programs like TUPE can grow and adapt to better serve the EHS population. He is especially skilled at recognizing strengths in others and helping them step into leadership roles.This has been crucial to building a sustainable and inclusive TUPE team of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. He has had a strong voice in selecting very strong leaders for the TUPE team, and he has already been planning and dreaming up TUPE ideas for the 2026-27 school year. It is without hesitation that I recommend Bhuvan for the Youth Advisory Committee. He would be a valuable asset to your team, bringing both heart and insight to the important work of youth engagement and advocacy. Sincerely, Jill Lemmer, MPH, CHES Contemporary Health & EHS TUPE Site Coordinator Emerald High School 186 187 188 189 To the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Panel: It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I write to highly recommend Disha Mehta for a position on the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). I have had the privilege of knowing and working with Disha as her piano teacher for approximately ﬁve years, and I have consistently been impressed by her exceptional dedication, leadership, and deep commitment to community service. Disha’s musical achievements reﬂect remarkable discipline and maturity. She recently completed the prestigious Level 10 of the Music Teachers’ Association of California (MTAC) Certiﬁcate of Merit program and is currently taking on the immense challenge of preparing for the elite MTAC Panel. Reaching this milestone requires years of rigorous daily practice, exceptional time management, and the ability to set and achieve long-term goals. These are precisely the analytical and organizational skills required to successfully evaluate city projects, review mini-grants, and plan large-scale youth events. What makes Disha’s accomplishments even more remarkable is her ability to balance these musical pursuits with the demands of being a top-tier student-athlete. As a varsity tennis player who secured second place at BVAL and qualiﬁed for the highly competitive North Coast Section (NCS), she has proven her resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Furthermore, her current role as the Cello Section Leader for the Emerald High School Orchestra—including leading her section at the prestigious ASTA festival— showcases her ability to collaborate and unify a team. These leadership traits will make her an invaluable team player on the YAC. What truly sets Disha apart, however, is her desire to use her talent and energy to serve others. Her dedication to community welfare is clearly demonstrated by earning the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) Gold Award for her extensive volunteer work at the Jain Center of Northern California (JCNC). Being officially recognized by the California State Assembly for this work speaks volumes about the tangible, positive impact she has already made. 190 Disha is a mature, civic-minded, and highly motivated young adult who genuinely cares about making a difference. I am completely conﬁdent that she will bring the same level of excellence and collaborative spirit to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee as she does to her music, academics, athletics, and volunteer work. Please feel free to contact me if you need any further information regarding this outstanding student. Sincerely, Tsengelmaa (Tessa) Hoch Piano Instructor [MTAC Member / Radayeva Music Studio] (510) 593-5126 l_tsengel@yahoo.com 191 192 193 Jessica Shipps Wells Middle School 6800 Penn Dr. Dublin, CA 94568 Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Dublin, CA To whom it may concern: I would like to strongly recommend Himani Suresh for appointment to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have been Himani’s Spanish and Leadership teacher for 1 year now, and I know her to be kind, trustworthy, and responsible. As part of my Spanish class, Himani maintains an A average and asks relevant and important questions whenever needed. She gets all of her work done on time, and does not ask redundant questions about things like due dates and project instructions. She gets along very well with her peers and offers encouragement and help with assignments. As part of my Leadership class, Himani has been part of the Publicity, Lunchtime Activity, and Welcome committees. As part of the publicity committee, Himani scripted, filmed, and helped to edit videos made by our leadership students. These videos were made in a timely manner, and were edited clearly and professionally. The lunchtime activity committee was in charge of creating inclusive and interesting games for students to participate in during their lunch hour. These games were executed very well, and had many participants enjoying their time after eating. The welcome committee covered the school in posters and maps, advertising events and clubs, to help new students find their way and find their friends. This team also put together a club fair with student representatives and posters and handouts, for students to attend during their lunch near the beginning of the year. In all of these committees, Himani was on-task and helpful always; she was a true leader to her peers and helped the team feel committed and productive. I know that she will be a wonderful addition to your committee. If you have any more questions, please feel free to reach out through my email at shippsjessica@dublinusd.org. Thank you for your consideration, Jessica Shipps Spanish and Leadership Teacher Wells Middle School 194 March 27, 2026 Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Panel, I am pleased to recommend Himani Suresh for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As their teacher, I have had the opportunity to watch them grow this year, and what has stood out most is their quiet determination and steady development into a more confident and engaged student. At the beginning of the year, Himani tended to be more reserved, often choosing to listen and reflect before contributing. Over time, however, they have begun to step outside of their comfort zone, sharing their thoughts more openly and participating more actively in class discussions. This growth has not been sudden, but rather the result of consistent effort, resilience, and a willingness to challenge themselves. Himani brings a thoughtful and grounded perspective to the classroom. They approach conversations with care, listen attentively to others, and contribute ideas that reflect both reflection and intention. Their ability to observe, process, and then respond meaningfully is a strength that would serve them well in a collaborative setting like the Youth Advisory Committee. What makes Himani especially deserving of this opportunity is not just where they are now, but the direction they are heading. They are developing the confidence to use their voice, and with the right opportunities, I believe they will continue to grow into a strong and impactful leader. I am confident that the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee would both support their continued growth and benefit from their perspective. I recommend them with confidence and enthusiasm. If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach me at angelesallysha@dublinusd.org. Sincerely, Allysha Angeles Allysha Angeles 195 196 197 198 March 27, 2025 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Hrihaan Bhutani to continue working with Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the pleasure of teaching him during each year in English since he was a freshman, and I am honored to share my observations and insights. Throughout the time I have known Hrihaan, he has consistently demonstrated a remarkable dedication to academic excellence. He is an engaged and thoughtful scholar, actively contributing to both small and whole-class discussions—even when challenging perspectives, including those of his peers. Hrihaan asks insightful questions, embraces complex ideas, and approaches differing viewpoints with intellectual curiosity and respect. His kindness and consideration for all his classmates further reflect his strong character. Throughout this academic year, Hrihaan continues to embody the qualities that educators and the school community hope to see in upperclassmen. Given that the YAC includes students from sixth through twelfth grade, I am confident that Hrihaan will serve as a role model for its younger members. His ability to collaborate effectively, support his peers, and lead with integrity makes him a valuable asset in any setting. For the past year, Hrihaan has attended all YAC meetings and actively contributed to projects the committee worked on. He also is deeply involved in the district as a Student Board Member, attending and speaking at school board meetings and helping represent the student voice at the district level. He shared with me a meaningful experience in which a startup founder came to speak at a YAC meeting about his own mental health application. After the meeting, Hrihaan reached out to him directly and has been working with him on an ongoing project. Hrihaan understands how the committee operates and knows what the city needs from its youth representatives, and he is in a stronger position, especially as a senior, to mentor the younger members and take on a more active leadership role. I wholeheartedly endorse Hrihaan for the Youth Advisory Committee. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or have any questions. Sincerely, Constance C. Turpel (626) 437-4106 turpelconstance@dublinusd.org 199 Youth Advisory Committee 2026 - 2027 Term Application The Youth Advisory Committee consists of 13 members and three alternate members who serve a one-year term. This Committee is a positive and creative youth-driven forum that gives Dublin teens a way to provide input on programs and activities offered by the City. The Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities of the Committee. Youth Advisory Committee Bylaws and Rules of Procedure govern the meetings and activities. To browse past Agendas and Minutes for the Commission, visit the City's Online Records Portal. Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter Please acknowledge that you have downloaded and read the Youth Advisory Committee Information Letter regarding regular meeting dates, and other commitments required as a committee member.* Yes Applicants are highly encouraged to attend the April 8, 2026 Youth Advisory Regular Meeting at 7:00 PM, held at the Shannon Community Center. Date Time * 3/27/2026 First Name * Mishka Last Name * Jain What school will you attend in the 2026-2027 school year?* Wells Middle School 200 What grade will you be in during the 2026-2027 school year?* 8th Application Questions Provide at least one signed letter of recommendation from a non-family member (i.e. employer, counselor, teacher, coach, etc.). The letter of recommendation should be submitted with the application and must be received by the application deadline; otherwise, the application will be incomplete. Jain_Letter of Rec.pdf 45.6KB Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to youthadvisory@dublin.ca.gov by March 27, 2026 by 5:00 pm. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I believe I have the skills, ideas, and knowledge to really contribute to this community. Last year, my history teacher, my favorite teacher was going to be moved to a diﬀerent school. One contributing factor to her staying was one of her previous students speaking on her behalf so she could stay. That really inspired me. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I'm a dedicated and committed student, and I really think I could do some good. I'm part of leadership at WMS and was part of student council for 2 years at DES. I believe I do have good leadership qualities, I'm very organized, and I will be able to contribute to the community. I'm also not afraid to speak in front of a large crowd, or rally a group of people. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues?* I believe that teens are dealing with issues such as being unmotivated in schools and all in all just not willing to learn. I think YAC can address these issues by bringing up solutions such as more counselors, more mental health support, a reward system, and many other ideas. I also believe that in meetings the YAC can bring up points from a teen's point of view. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2025-2026 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I have one advanced math class and 2 online art classes, which can be rescheduled for my commitment to YAC. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I have lived in Dublin my entire life. I have built a vast network with people ranging from all grades. From elementary to high school I know lots of people. I participated in one of my friend's father's campaigning eﬀorts. Which gives me the conﬁdence that I have the knowledge to approach and persuade people. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting?* No If yes, what was the meeting date and outcome of the item(s) you were interested in? Applications must be submitted no later than Friday, March 27, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. For questions, please contact the Parks and Community Services Department at (925) 556-4500 or youthadvisory@dublin.ca.go v 201 Lisa Banga 7th Grade CORE Teacher Wells Middle School 6800 Penn Dr Dublin, CA 94568 March 27th, 2026 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing this letter to recommend Mishka who is applying for the Youth Advisory Council (YAC). I have known Mishka for 8 months in my capacity as a teacher at Wells Middle School. Mishka is currently a student in my 7th Grade English and 7th Grade History class. Mishka is a dedicated student, working hard to maintain high grades in both of my classes. She works diligently in class, turning in all of her assignments on time. Mishka also excels academically, receiving high scores on quizzes and tests and on summative assignments such as projects and essays. This demonstrates her strong work ethic and her ability to balance her workload. Mishka is also part of our Leadership Program at school, a program that requires skills in collaboration, responsibility, and leadership. As part of the program, Mishka has helped me out in my classroom after school by hanging up student work, creating large posters of important information such as the bell schedule, and organizing school supplies. Her attention to detail makes assigning these tasks to her easy, as I am always confident in her ability to accomplish whatever is asked of her and to excel in those tasks. In conclusion, I would highly recommend Mishka for the Youth Advisory Council as she would be an excellent addition to the program. If you need any additional information, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Lisa Banga bangalisa@dublinusd.org (925) 828-6227 EX. 6175 202 203 204 MASTER KIM’S TAEKWONDO ACADEMY Master Jungtae Kim March 26, 2026 Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Recommendation Letter for Kartik Dhulipala Dear Members of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am pleased to highly recommend Kartik Dhulipala for a position on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee for the upcoming year. As his Taekwondo Master at Master Kim’s Taekwondo Academy (MKTA), I have seen Kartik, in the last 6 years, develop into a disciplined martial artist and a strong, dependable leader. Kartik is an important member of our Leadership Team and an assistant instructor currently training for his 3rd-degree black belt. He takes initiative in supporting our programs, including assisting with belt tests where he helps organize students, manage activities, and ensure everything runs smoothly. He also dedicates time each week to mentoring younger and lower-belt students, helping them reﬁne their techniques and grow in conﬁdence. Kartik consistently demonstrates leadership through his actions, showing respect, responsibility, and a positive attitude. Kartik is also a student with a strong mindset—he consistently challenges himself by choosing to spar with opponents who are stronger than he is. This willingness to step outside his comfort zone reﬂects his resilience, courage, and commitment to continuous improvement. Recently, Kartik competed in a Taekwondo tournament held in Dublin and earned a gold medal in sparring. This achievement highlights not only his skill and dedication, but also his perseverance and competitive spirit. At MKTA, we value integrity and community involvement, and Kartik exempliﬁes these qualities in everything he does. I am conﬁdent he will make meaningful contributions to the Dublin community through his service on the Youth Advisory Committee. Sincerely, Master Jungtae Kim Head Master / Owner, MKTA 2688 DUBLIN BLVD, DUBLIN CA 94568 (415) 769 1127 DUBLINCA@MASTERKIMTAEKWONDO.COM 205 206 207 Youth Advisory Committee Dublin City Hall 100 Civic Plaza Dublin, CA 94568 To Whom It May Concern, It is with great pleasure that I write this letter of recommendation for Keia Agarwal as she applies to join Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. I had the privilege of teaching Keia in my 7th grade English and History classes last year, and have seen her contribute positively to Cottonwood Creek School throughout this school year. Keia knows how to keep her materials and time superbly organized, always submitting high quality work on time. She is also eager to participate in discussions, but her merits really lie with her ability to listen intently first. Keia is able to patiently get along with just about anyone. Recently, she performed as Lionel Messi in a student-written play for her Spanish class. Her performance to my English class stood out for her clear preparedness and confidence. I am confident she will bring the same dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership to this role. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or require further information. Sincerely, Jamie Won Cottonwood Creek School 7th Grade Core & AVID wonjamie@dublinusd.org (925) 833-3333 x6573 208 209 210 March 24, 2026 Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Panel, It is my pleasure to recommend Laasya Kankatala for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As her teacher, I have had the opportunity to witness her growth over time, particularly in her confidence and willingness to engage. Laasya began the year more reserved, often taking time to process and observe before contributing. However, through consistent effort and a growing sense of confidence, she has started to share her ideas more openly and take a more active role in the classroom. For example, during our mini Socratic seminars, she thoughtfully expressed her perspectives on The Outsiders, particularly in discussions about how the justice system should take youth into consideration. She articulated how impactful life experiences shape young people and contribute to meaningful personal growth. This progress reflects her perseverance, self-awareness, and readiness to take on new challenges. What stands out most about Laasya is her potential. She is thoughtful, reflective, and genuinely engaged in her learning and community. While she may not always be the most outspoken, her voice is meaningful—bringing insight, care, and intention to the spaces she is part of. I am confident that participation in the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee will further support her growth while also benefiting the committee through her perspective and dedication. I strongly recommend her for this opportunity. If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach me at angelesallysha@dublinusd.org. Sincerely, Allysha Angeles Allysha Angeles 211 212 213 214 To Whom It May Concern: It is with great pride and pleasure that I write a letter of recommendation for Landon Colley as a candidate for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. I had the opportunity to observe and work with Landon in his capacity as a Physical Education student and as game scoreboard operator for our basketball program this past season. Landon would be a valuable team player in your program. In my 30 years as a teacher, I have noticed that it is rare for a 9th grader to show this level of maturity. Landon has shown initiative by inquiring how he could help the basketball program and stepped right in and took over the scoreboard operator position when we needed him most. He picked up the complicated scoreboard system very easily and hit the ground running without much help. He is very dependable and hard-working. He has proven to be calm, assertive, professional, and flexible in some pretty high stress situations during the season. The manner in which he was able to interact with students and adults (officials, coaches, parents) has been exemplary and it was evident by the respect with which he was treated in return. Landon obviously sets high expectations for himself and the people with which he works. He has shown to be extremely dependable and trustworthy. Landon Colley is a team player with a positive and flexible attitude. He is well-liked and respected by not only his peers, but by the adults with which he works as well. He will be a great addition to your program and I highly recommend him. If I can be of further assistance to you, please feel free to contact me at Dublin High School. 925-833-3300 Sincerely, Thomas Costello Physical Education Teacher Boys Basketball Head Coach Dublin High School www.dublinusd.org/dhs 215 216 217 218 Sdfsdfdsfsdf To whom it may concern, I am writing to recommend Mehek Kothari as a candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. It has been a pleasure having Mehek on the Yearbook staff this year. As an editor of the Yearbook, Mehek distinguishes herself not just through her work ethic but through her character. Mehek is an exceptionally kind and empathetic student who builds meaningful connections with her peers and supports them with a level of dedication rarely seen at her age. She is a proactive problem-solver; whenever challenges arise, she is among the first to step up and ensure the work is completed to a high standard. Mehek frequently goes above and beyond her assigned duties, voluntarily correcting and completing pages outside her remit and taking on photography tasks that others might overlook. Her initiative and dedication have been vital to our success this year, and I am deeply proud of everything she has achieved. I know that, given the right opportunities, Mehek will step up and be a compassionate leader who can complete the work, lead with respect, and offer support to her peers. Thank you, Colleen Johnston 3/26/2026 Johnstoncolleen@dublinusd.org 219 220 221 Lisa Banga 7th Grade CORE Teacher Wells Middle School 6800 Penn Dr Dublin, CA 94568 March 27th, 2026 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing this letter to recommend Myra Agarwal who is applying for the Youth Advisory Council (YAC). I have known Myra for 8 months in my capacity as a teacher at Wells Middle School. Myra is currently a student in my 7th Grade English and 7th Grade History class. Myra has excelled in both subjects, maintaining excellent grades throughout the school year. She is an enthusiastic student, participating frequently in class and contributing meaningfully to class discussions. She asks thoughtful questions, demonstrating her ability to not only master the content, but to engage more deeply with the texts and topics we cover in English and History. She puts forth her best effort on all her assignments, whether it is for an end-of-the-unit project, a culminating essay, or a simple worksheet; this shows her dedication to learning and to becoming a more knowledgeable and capable individual. Myra is also part of our Leadership Program at school, which demonstrates her willingness to take on more challenging responsibilities that require collaboration, creativity, responsibility, and leadership skills. These are skills that I have also witnessed in my classes that Myra is in as she is always on caught up, or ahead in, her assignments, and she is always striving to improve her work. Myra is a joy to have as a student due to her work ethic, the quality of her work, and her positive attitude. In conclusion, I would highly recommend Myra for the Youth Advisory Council as she would be an excellent addition to the program. If you need any additional information, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Lisa Banga bangalisa@dublinusd.org (925) 828-6227 EX. 6175 222 223 224 225 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to recommend Nataha Manuel for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the pleasure of knowing Natasha Manuel for almost three years. Currently in my Honors Chemistry class at Emerald High School, Natasha also took my 7th grade science class at Fallon Middle School. A straight-A student, Natasha is an intelligent, articulate, and personable young woman. Over the time that I’ve known her, I have had the opportunity to observe Natasha’s character, leadership, and commitment to the school community. She is active in a number of team-based extracurricular activities, including orchestra and Destination Imagination. She has excellent communication skills, in part due to her participation in Speech and Debate school teams. In class, Natasha is a thoughtful and engaged student who consistently demonstrates maturity and responsibility. I purposely pair Natasha with students having difficulty in the course, because Natasha goes out of her way to help others. Natasha has really stood out as a student who is growing and advancing, and I think she has a lot of leadership potential. I am confident that Natasha would be a dedicated, effective, and thoughtful member of the Youth Advisory Committee, and make meaningful contributions to the Dublin community. I very enthusiastically recommend N atasha for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I may be reached at 408-505-4930 or lourisstephanie@dublinusd.org. Warm regards, Stephanie Louris, PhD 226 227 228 229 March 27, 2025 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Prajval Balakavi for a position on Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the pleasure of teaching him for two academic years, and I am delighted to share my observations. Throughout this time, Prajval has consistently demonstrated a strong growth mindset and exceptional focus. He is a persistent and thoughtful scholar who actively reflects on and refines his understanding. In our current AP English Language and Composition course, he is consistently engaged, contributing meaningfully in both small group and whole-class discussions. He embraces challenges and views mistakes as valuable opportunities for growth. Prajval regularly dedicates time outside of class to further his learning. While many students stop at completing assigned work, he takes the initiative to review material independently and seek clarification through thoughtful follow-up questions. This level of intellectual curiosity and self-motivation speaks to his commitment and maturity as a learner. Beyond his academic strengths, Prajval demonstrates qualities that would make him an excellent member of the Youth Advisory Committee, including responsibility, initiative, and a genuine willingness to engage with others’ perspectives. I am confident he would contribute thoughtfully and positively to discussions impacting the community. I wholeheartedly endorse Prajval for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or have questions regarding his abilities and accomplishments. Constance C. Turpel (626) 437-4106 turpelconstance@dublinusd.org 230 231 232 233 Letter of Recommendation 03/06/2025 Amir Ebrahim +1(415)-699-6898 Emerald High School ameeib98@gmail.com Girls Varsity Soccer Head Coach To Whom It May Concern, I’m really proud to recommend Reet. I've had the pleasure of coaching her on the Emerald High School soccer team, and honestly, she’s one of those players you just feel lucky to have on your team. She has put in so much work to improve herself, both on and off the field. Her growth as a player has been impressive, she’s sharpened her skills, gotten mentally tougher, and always shows up ready to put in the work. But what really sets her apart is the kind of person she is. She’s got amazing social skills and just knows how to bring people together. Whether it’s motivating the team during a tough match or just being there for her teammates off the field. She’s always positive, even when things get tough, and her energy lifts up everyone around her. What’s even more impressive is how she balances it all. Reet is not just excelling in soccer, her grades are outstanding. She’s incredibly driven and always looking for ways to improve, whether that’s in the classroom or on the field. She's always the first one at practice, never late, and ready to work hard from the start. That kind of dedication and consistency is rare. Her work ethic, positivity, and ability to lift up the people around her make her the kind of player and person any team or program would be lucky to have. I have no doubt she’ll keep making a big impact wherever she goes. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Best, Amir Ebrahim Emerald High School Girls Soccer Varsity Head Coach 234 235 236 March 25, 2026 Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Panel, It is my pleasure to recommend Rushitha Sreeram for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As her teacher, I have seen firsthand her ability to use her voice in meaningful and impactful ways. Rushitha is a confident and articulate communicator who is not only willing to share her ideas, but also remains open to the perspectives of others. In classroom discussions, she consistently demonstrates strong critical thinking, asks insightful questions, and thoughtfully advocates for the ideas she believes in. Her voice carries both clarity and respect—an essential balance for any leadership role. Beyond the classroom, Rushitha is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive school community. Through her involvement in leadership and the WEB program, she supports and welcomes incoming sixth graders, helping them feel connected and supported. Her dedication to strengthening school culture reflects both her initiative and her genuine care for others. What stands out most about Rushitha is her desire to make a difference. She is engaged, self-aware, and motivated to contribute meaningfully to her school and broader community. Her presence elevates those around her. I am confident that Rushitha will bring valuable insight, energy, and perspective to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I highly recommend her for this opportunity. If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach me at angelesallysha@dublinusd.org. Sincerely, Allysha Angeles Allysha Angeles 237 Mar 25, 2026 To the Youth Advisory Committee: I am writing to express my appreciation for a student, Rushitha Sreeram, and to recommend her to the Committee as an excellent candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee. I have been working with Rushitha for 3 years now, during her 6th, 7th, and 8th grade years at Wells Middle School. She is an exceptional young woman. I have seen her grow tremendously. She was a quiet student who followed the directions of older peers. Now, she is the one leading, creating, developing, and organizing large events or happenings on our campus. She is an extremely integral part of our Leadership Program of 63 students. As her Leadership Advisor and the Activities Director at Wells, I have relied heavily on Rushitha. She has a true heart of gold. She is always willing to help. She doesn’t expect any reward or acknowledgement for what she does. She just wants to do things well and to make a difference. She is courageous in how she leads. She has a strong voice. She has amazing ideas that are fun and different. Her brain is constantly thinking about ways to make our campus better, or ways to make an event better. She has learned how to work with many different students and different personalities as well. At the end of the event, or at the end of daily class, she is the one who always checks in with me to see if there is anything else I need help with. Or if it is after school hours, she is the one to text me with a great thought or an idea. She lives and breathes being in our Leadership program. And as I only have a few months left with her as she will be promoting to high school soon, I am dreading having to run many events without her by my side. Therefore, I recommend Rushitha Sreeram for the Youth Advisory Committee. I would always want this young woman on my team! I am so proud of her and I am so thankful to have had the chance to work with her in our Leadership program! Please contact me if you have any questions bungerdenise@dublinusd.org or 831-588-2883. Respectfully, Denise Bunger Teacher, Advisor, Activities Director Wells Middle School 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 March 27, 2026 To Whom It May Concern, As the Director of Community Schools at the Alameda County Oﬃce of Education, I have the privilege of advising our Youth Advisory Board (YAB). Saana Jadhav, a sophomore at Emerald High School, has been an active member of YAB since she was a freshman. In her current subcommittee work, she has been advocating for mental health and academic resources. She collaborated with a subcommittee to discuss solutions and is in the process of creating a presentation highlighting experiences and proposed actions. She is also helping organize the Public Service Announcement contest for students across Alameda County. In the previous year, she presented at the Teens Tackle Tobacco (TTT) Conference at UC Berkeley, where she worked with a team of six to deliver a workshop on substance use prevention for middle school students across the county. She also managed ACOE social media and helped organize the 2024–2025 PSA contest. Saana is a highly collaborative youth leader with a deep commitment to equity and youth voice. I highly recommend her for a leadership role in Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. Should you require any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at 510-967-7552 or dguikema@acoe.org. Sincerely, Dennis Guikema Dennis Guikema Director, Countywide Community Schools and Partnerships Alameda County Oﬃce of Education 246 247 248 249 250 251 March 27, 2025 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Sanjana Gidwani for a position on Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the pleasure of teaching her for the past two years, and I am delighted to share my observations. Throughout this time, Sanjana has consistently demonstrated a remarkable dedication to academic excellence. She is a strong reader, writer, and critical thinker who readily embraces the challenges presented by complex texts. Her thoughtful contributions to class discussions have enriched the learning environment for both her peers and myself. This year, Sanjana delivered an outstanding presentation on Ticketmaster and its monopoly on the concert ticket market. This work highlighted her ability to analyze real-world issues, develop unique perspectives, and clearly communicate complex ideas to her peers. In addition to her academic strengths, Sanjana is a collaborative, open-minded, and courageous student who is willing to step outside of her comfort zone. She would serve as an excellent role model for younger students and would approach the responsibilities of serving on Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee with confidence and integrity. I wholeheartedly endorse Sanjana for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or have questions regarding her abilities and accomplishments. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or have any questions. Sincerely, Constance C. Turpel (626) 437-4106 turpelconstance@dublinusd.org 252 253 Sanvi Singh LOR Nov 2025.pdf 211.46KB Teachers, counselors, and coaches can email the letter of recommendation directly to youthadvisory@dublin.ca.gov by March 27, 2026 by 5:00 pm. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Over the past year, I’ve been following Dublin YAC's work in community advocacy events and their new mini grant program, and I am impressed by its approach to uplifting teen mental health and civic engagement. With my background in student leadership, outreach, and civil service, I am excited about the potential of designing new events, activities, and policies to help the YAC team achieve their goal of promoting inclusivity and increasing the visibility of youth in community events. This role aligns perfectly with my desire to work in the legal ﬁeld when I gro w older while contributing to an organization known for active community impact and a strong connection to city government. YAC would allow me to translate my leadership experience into meaningful initiatives that directly beneﬁt Dublin teens. YAC will help me gain insight into how city government operates, and this information will help propel my future career in governance/law. To continue, as a team player in both volleyball and ASB leadership, I look forward to working with other like minded individuals who share my passion for community service. I’ve been a part of the Dublin LEAD program for almost 3 years now, and I’ve realized that I really enjoy working for the Dublin community. Working in the Dublin LEAD program has helped me serve the community through summer camps and customer service, but I want to contribute at a broader level by designing citywide events made by teens for teens! Not only is YAC the perfect opportunity for me to apply and grow my existing skills, but it’s also a great opportunity for me to develop new skills such as evaluation ( especially when YAC reviews grants and makes funding recommendations) and ﬁnancial comprehension. I am especially interested in helping organize monthly “Teen Takeover” nights ( work in progress name!), where teens can hold short sessions teaching skills that they are passionate about, like sports, art, public speaking, music, etc. Events like this would empower teens to share their passions and talents while building stronger connections with others in the community. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* 1. First, I have strong public speaking and communication skills. Last summer, I participated in a communications class at Las Positas Community College. This class taught me the fundamentals of public speaking and eﬃcient interaction, especially how to connect with an audience. I was chosen to deliver an introductory speech for Congressman Eric Swalwell when he visited the college as well. I’ve been a member of my school’s speech and debate team for approximately 2 years now. I have competed in major national tournaments like the Berkeley Invitational and Columbia Invitational, earning multiple 1st place speaker awards. This recognizes my ability to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively. My public speaking skills make me a strong candidate for YAC because they allow me to clearly communicate the needs of Dublin teens regarding local programs, activities, and issues. They also help build impactful communication; communication that allows me to leave a lasting and positive impression on peers and city council members. My public speaking skills come hand in hand with my social skills, which are also crucial to YAC because they allow me to network and develop important connections. 2. Next, I’ve been in student leadership for almost 3 years now, helping me develop critical event organizing skills that would be valuable to the YAC when planning and executing teen events. As a leadership student, I work with unique individuals in planning school-wide events that build community and student pride. I’ve worked as our community service lead in the past, allowing me to spearhead multiple school activities that highlight inclusivity and meaningful interaction. For instance, me and my team developed a “birthday recognition” system where leadership students are assigned shifts to deliver crowns and celebrate each student in their ﬁrst period class. Our goal was to create “low burden, high impact” events that connect to every student on campus. My event organizing skills go beyond these “low-burden, high impact” activities as well! I’m great at organizing huge school rallies and dances. Organizing these events requires a lot of “behind the scenes” work, like reaching out to vendors, planning creative games and showcases, and constantly using feedback given by the student body. 3. My experience in not only student leadership but also in peer tutoring and Dublin LEAD has taught me important leadership skills. Working in student leadership shaped me to be proactive and decisive. I've learned eﬀective collaboration and task delegation, time management, and str ategic decision making, especially when planning out itineraries, schedules, and assigning shifts for rallies and dances. Most importantly, I’ve mastered ﬂexibility and navigating change, especially through executing school rallies where sudden changes or student actions can force you to make last minute changes or improvise the day of. My adaptability is also strengthened by my experience in tutoring and coaching others, as I often have to adjust to my trainee’s learning style. Being a Dublin LEAD taught me how to professionally handle conﬂicts and be a leader in the work environment. I lo ved being a part of this LEAD program not only because of the crucial professional skills I learned, but also because of all the beautiful connections I made with the kids I supervised, the people I worked with, and the customers I helped. Through volleyball and student leadership, I have learned how to motivate a team towards a common goal. I’ve won the NCS Most Inspirational Athlete two years in a row on my volleyball team. All in all, these leadership skills will be important to the YAC because they ensure eﬀective event planning, improved communication and collaboration, and consistent progress towards a team goal. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC can address these issues?* I believe one major issue teens in Dublin are currently dealing with is academic stress and pressure. As a student at Emerald High school, I’ve seen many students struggle with burnout and overwhelming academic pressure. One of my math teachers was just telling me the other day about how Emerald High School ( and Dublin in general) is much more academically competitive compared to other schools in the county. YAC can address this issue by organizing wellness focused events like journaling workshops, where the youth could come to the community center and decorate their own personal journal and write down thoughts, feelings, or three things they are grateful for daily. This would provide a creative outlet and encourage mindfulness, directly reﬂecting YA C’s mission to support teen wellbeing. We could also host planner building activities that help students develop healthy time management habits. Solving academic stress can go beyond just organizing oneself though. Personally, I’ve found social interaction to be a great way for me to detach from schoolwork, so hosting teen movie nights, ice cream socials, or other community-wide activities that require interaction, can boost mental health and deter academic stress as well. Another issue I think Dublin teens are dealing with is social media addiction. I’ve noticed that kids around me are always glued to their phones scrolling instagram every passing period, every class, and afterschool. I believe this is because some teenagers have social anxiety, and use their phone as a comfort mechanism for when they don’t want to/don’t know how to talk to people. One of the more major reasons is because of how attractive everything on social media is, and how teens are often insecure of themselves and use social media as a place to compare themselves to others. The best way YAC can solve this is by hosting more community building events that require teens to leave their phones outside/not with them. YAC could partner with organizations like Project Reboot to host seminars with keynote speakers who have overcome tech addiction. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2025-2026 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I’ll be in the school girls volleyball team for indoor ( fall season) and beach ( spring season). I’ll also be in my school’s speech and debate team, competing in tournaments some weekends. I’m currently involved in both these activities too. I will still be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities because I still have free time in my week (no practice Fridays for beach and weekends) and I do a pretty good job of using Google Calendar and my planner to organize time blocks for everything I need to do. I’ve won the student athlete award at my school and was recognized on the NCS President’s List for two years now, demonstrating my ability to manage schoolwork and athletics eﬀectively. Because I already balance athletics, debate, and academics successfully, I am conﬁdent in my ability to commit to YAC meetings and projects each month. 254 255 December 15,2024 Sarah Sepulveda Head Coach,Girls Volleyball Emerald High School To whom it may concern, As Head Coach for girls volleyball,I have had the privilege of working with Sanvi Singh since August 2024,while she played on the EHS Freshman Volleyball team.Sanvi was a standout player and leader from the ﬁrst day I met her.She was always wanting to improve and do her best,through daily practice and even spending time outside of school to get extra reps at camps and private lessons. During the season,Sanvi consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a superb work ethic that helped our team.She played a pivotal role in keeping our team motivated on and oﬀthe court.Sanvi was not only reliable and dedicated but also exhibited a strong commitment to achieving the team’s goals. In addition to her athletic skills,Sanvi exhibited a positive attitude and outstanding intrapersonal skills.She was well liked by her teammates and would help others on the court as needed. I am conﬁdent that Sanvi will be an invaluable asset to any organization she joins and will make a meaningful contribution in her role.I strongly endorse Sanvi Singh without reservation and believe that she will exceed all expectations. Sincerely, Sarah Sepulveda 256 Chris MacDougall Contemporary Health Teacher macdougallchris@dublinusd.org Dublin Unified School District To Whom it May Concern: I am writing to recommend Sanvi Singh in high regard. Since I have known Sanvi, she has been friendly, warm, genuine, proactive, and engaged. She has been a mentor in my Freshman Mentorship Program class since the beginning of the 25-26 school year, and was also a freshman in my Contemporary Health class in the 24-25 school year. The setting that I really have gotten to know Sanvi in is a unique one. At Emerald High School, we have a program called FMP (Freshman Mentorship Program) where 2-3 mentors lead a full class of Freshman in 30 minutes of lessons and activities per week. This year’s mentors are in a unique and challenging position because usually our school district’s mentors are juniors and seniors, but our school is new and doesn’t have seniors. So, Sanvi is one of our first two classes of sophomore mentors that are in the position to mentor a class just one grade younger than them. This presents many unique challenges because these mentors haven’t had as much time to develop their senses of self and their self confidence as our mentors have in the past, but Sanvi has risen to the occasion and done an amazing job with the class that she is responsible for. From the very beginning, Sanvi has been enthusiastic about her role. She has jumped in with both feet even though this was her first year as a mentor. It is clear that Sanvi quickly became comfortable because she is making genuine one-on-one connections with the freshman on a daily basis and is natural at leading the full class. She and the other mentors on her team put their minds together to determine effective ways to motivate and engage the freshman and adapt the FMP curriculum to their class’ unique group of freshmen. It truly is very impressive to watch the mentors become stronger leaders week by week. They participate in trainings regularly and reflect on their process just like teachers do. These students are among the most respected and utilized on campus. Sanvi’s mentorship I believe will serve her ability to thrive in many situations.. I am sure that the dedication she has shown at Emerald High School will carry over into success in the future. I am confident that whatever she is selected for will be excited to have chosen her. Please give Sanvi serious consideration. Sincerely, Chris MacDougall 257 Sdfsdfdsfsdf March 6, 2026 To the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Commission Selection Committee, It is my pleasure to recommend Sanvi Singh, a 10th grade student at Emerald High School, for appointment to the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Commission. As an educator, I have had the opportunity to observe many students develop their leadership skills, and Sanvi stands out as a motivated, responsible, and community-minded young leader who consistently demonstrates initiative, integrity, and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference. Sanvi maintains a strong academic record, earning a 3.8 GPA and recognition on the North Coast Section (NCS) President’s List. While her academic success is impressive, what truly distinguishes Sanvi is the way she balances her studies with meaningful leadership and service. She approaches every opportunity with a clear sense of purpose and a desire to uplift others. Her vision—to create a world where students feel empowered to make a difference—is evident in the many ways she contributes to her school and community. Sanvi has demonstrated a strong commitment to service through her work as a City of Dublin volunteer, swim lesson instructor, children’s camp helper, and youth volleyball coach. In these roles she mentors younger students, builds positive relationships, and models responsibility and patience. Her work with younger children highlights her natural ability to lead through encouragement and example. At school, Sanvi has taken on a number of leadership roles that reflect her initiative and dedication. She has served on the WEB Leadership Team for two years, helping younger students transition successfully into a new school environment. At Emerald High School she participates in the Student Leadership program and has organized major school events such as the Winter Rally. She also serves on the executive board of Girls4Sports and as Secretary of the Feminist Student Union, advocating for inclusivity, collaboration, and student engagement. 258 Sanvi has also distinguished herself in public speaking and critical thinking. As a member of the varsity debate team, she has competed in several high-level tournaments and earned recognition as a top speaker at the Cal Invitational. She has won both the Quarry Lane Invitational and the Columbia Invitational in Public Forum Debate, demonstrating strong analytical thinking, research skills, and the ability to communicate effectively on complex issues—skills that would be valuable in a civic advisory role. In addition, Sanvi has shown leadership in athletics and extracurricular activities. She is a dedicated member of both indoor and beach volleyball teams and has received the North Coast Section Coach’s Award, recognizing her as an inspirational and valuable teammate. She has also earned the National Spanish Exam Gold Medal and was the 2024 State Chess Champion in the 800U division. Beyond school activities, Sanvi demonstrates impressive initiative as the Founder and President of BraceLIT, a youth-led organization that raises funds for the SPCA through bracelet sales. This project reflects her creativity, compassion, and commitment to supporting her community. Sanvi is an optimistic, thoughtful, and collaborative young leader who brings energy and maturity to every role she takes on. I strongly recommend her for the Youth Advisory Commission and am confident she will represent the youth of the City Dublin with dedication and integrity. Please feel free to contact me if additional information would be helpful at (925) 551-4040 ext. 4872. Sincerely, Veronica Wienholz EHS Social Studies Department 259 1 Wednesday, November 26th, 2025 To Whom It May Concern: It is with deep respect and my strongest endorsement that I write this letter on behalf of Sanvi Singh, one of the most gifted, principled, and promising young leaders I have ever encountered in my teaching career. Sanvi was a student in my CMST 1: Fundamentals of Public Speaking course at Las Positas College during the first-ever high-school public speaking pilot program in California State history this past summer. The program gathered twenty-three of the most driven, intellectually curious, and service-oriented students from across the region. Even within such a competitive and high-achieving cohort, Sanvi distinguished herself immediately and unmistakably. From the very beginning, Sanvi demonstrated a combination of clarity, poise, leadership, and tremendous moral purpose that is rare at any age, let alone at fourteen. She was a central reason the program was so successful that it has now been approved as a permanent offering beginning this spring, 2026. When education leaders and policy makers asked why the pilot worked as well as it did, Sanvi’s growth, presence, and example were among the student stories I repeatedly highlighted (with her identity protected in accordance with FERPA). In fact, her example has helped secure upcoming visits from some of the nation’s most respected legal and public service leaders, including a former Assistant Attorney General who directed the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel. What makes Sanvi truly exceptional is not only what she can do—but who she is as a human person. She leads without fanfare. She elevates without being asked. She communicates with a sincerity and steadiness that creates trust in the room whatever the day or the circumstance. A defining moment in our course occurred when a United States Congressional delegation, led by Congressman Eric Swalwell (now a candidate for Governor of California), visited our classroom. Without hesitation, her peers selected Sanvi to deliver the formal welcome on behalf of all twenty- three students. That responsibility was not ceremonial; it required real maturity, command, clarity, and warmth. The Congressman had just flown in from Washington, and I watched his shoulders relax the moment Sanvi began speaking. She set the tone for the entire event with remarkable composure. Her presence was not only impress ive; it was truly disarming and humorous. A second defining moment came when our class hosted Professor Robert P. George of Princeton University, widely regarded as one of the most respected legal scholars and public intellectuals in the world and the holder of the same endowed chair once held by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson. Sanvi was selected to pose one of the student questions. Her preparation, thoughtfulness, and precision were evident in every part of the exchange. Students twice her age wou ld have been intimidated by the moment; Sanvi rose to it with excitement and an intellectual curiosity that Professor George, himself, commented on. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 3000 Campus Hill Drive, Livermore, CA 94551 Tel: 925.424-1000 Fax: 925.443.0742 Web: www.laspositascollege.edu 260 2 Her academic work in my course was equally distinguished. Her persuasive speech on human trafficking was one of the most compelling and ethically grounded student speeches I have seen in my years of teaching. She approached the subject with a seriousness of purpose, careful research, and the kind of moral courage that points unmistakably toward a future in advocacy and law. Beyond her individual excellence, Sanvi is gifted in ways that benefit others in every way. Throughout the term, she spent time mentoring and tutoring her peers —many of whom struggled with speech anxiety or needed additional support. She did this quietly, consistently, and with pastoral care. Her compassion is never performative; it is practiced sincerely. And, her peers flourished because of it. Youth in Law’s Mission: providing students with educational resources, free programs and internships, success stories, events and webinars, career and college guidance, and scholarship opportunities aligns seamlessly with Sanvi’s character and trajectory. She is the kind of young leader who not only benefits from these opportunities, but elevates them for others. Her academic discipline, her commitment to community, her growing interest in law and ad vocacy, and her proven ability to mentor peers all make her an exceptional fit for an organization dedicated to expanding access, building confidence, and empowering the next generation of legal thinkers and civic leaders. In my professional judgment, based on extensive experience teaching, mentoring, and working alongside public servants, attorneys, and civic leaders—Sanvi is on track to become an advocate, in whatever legal field she chooses, in the top 1%. I say without hesitation that she has the intellect, composure, and moral seriousness to become a future U.S. Attorney, a leader in the Department of Justice, or even, one day, a U.S. Attorney General or Supreme Court Justice. That is the level of potential I, and many others, see in her. If you are seeking a young leader whose gifts are matched by integrity, discipline, and purpose, someone who will strengthen your organization from day one and elevate those around her, Sanvi is that person. One of our guest speakers, an award-winning journalist, shared a phrase she often includes in her letters of recommendation: “You’d regret not hiring her.” That’s how I feel about Sanvi. You’d truly regret not selecting her because she is, quite simply, remarkable. She has my unconditional and highest recommendation. I’d be more than happy to speak with you, whether by phone, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or e-mail, for as long as needed to share why I believe, with full conviction, that there is no one quite like her and that she belongs on your team. Thank you for your precious time—with every best wish and kind regard, Michael X Sullivan Professor, Communication Studies Las Positas College Voting Member, Guided Pathways Committee msullivan@laspositascollege.edu. | (925) 424-1200 Ext. 2254 261 262 263 Date: 3/13/2026 To the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I am very pleased to recommend Sharanya Donepudi for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the privilege of knowing Sharanya as her music teacher at Vani Music School, and I can confidently say that she would be an excellent representative of the youth in Dublin. Sharanya consistently demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities. She is responsible, dependable, and takes initiative in group settings. She is the type of student who naturally steps forward to organize ideas, encourage participation, and help others work together toward a common goal. Her ability to lead while also listening respectfully to others makes her especially effective in collaborative environments. Sharanya has a very friendly and approachable personality. She easily connects with people from different backgrounds and makes others feel comfortable sharing their ideas and opinions. This quality allows her to build strong relationships with her peers and creates an inclusive atmosphere wherever she is involved. What stands out most about her is her genuine interest in making a positive difference. She cares deeply about her community. I am confident that she will bring thoughtful ideas, and a positive attitude to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I strongly recommend Sharanya Donepudi for this opportunity. I believe she will represent the youth of Dublin with integrity, enthusiasm, and maturity. Sincerely, Manasa K Director, Vani Music School 5106060840 264 265 266 267 3/23/26 To: Dublin Youth Advisory Committee From: Eric Lai Re: Letter of Recommendation for Shivish Aneja, applicant for Committee 2026-2027 I have known Shivish for 5 years, first as a player for three years on the nationally-ranked Fallon Middle School chess club that I co-founded, and for which I continue to serve as the head coach and program manager. Shivish was one of the strongest and most active players on the team, which was national middle school online team champion while he was a member. After moving onto Emerald High School, Shivish returned to Fallon to serve as a student assistant coach in my classroom. He was a diligent, reliable presence, teaching a small (2-4) group of students. He improved his teaching and speaking skills during that time. Shivish also serves as an assistant floor tournament director at our monthly tournaments. These are large (150-200 players of all age and levels) events that run for 6 hours. Floor TDs like him are key to the success of our tournaments. And Shivish has proven himself to be a reliable presence. I am also aware that he has started leading his own free chess classes and tournaments through the Emerald HS chess club and the related Emerald Knights organization that he has started. I give my strong recommendation for Shivish to serve on the Youth Advisory Committee. Sincerely Yours, Eric Lai Co-Founder, Emerald Hills Chess - we teach 300+ students at 15 after-school chess clubs and tournament training classes in the Tri-Valley. We also hold monthly tournaments that attract 150-200 players. 268 269 270 271 March 27, 2026 Dear Youth Advisory Committee, I am pleased to recommend Shuchi Pannala for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. I currently serve as Shuchi’s teacher in Integrated Marketing Communications at Dublin High School, and I can state with confidence that she is a highly collaborative, purpose-driven, and thoughtful student. Shuchi has distinguished herself through her ability to mobilize groups and form lasting communities. She co-founded the non-profit organization, KathaMunch Teens (KMT), which empowers teens to rediscover their cultural roots through the form of theater. Her most recent project, the upcoming original jukebox musical Desi Enough, serves as a powerful example of her leadership and entrepreneurial maturity. To execute this show, Shuchi successfully pitched to the YAC and received $1000 in funding. She single-handedly oversaw all aspects of the production, including writing the original musical, directing, financial management, and coordinating an entire cast, crew, and executive team of over 30 people. This initiative reflects her advanced strategic planning, high-level execution, and remarkable growth in managing complex logistics. I recommend Shuchi Pannala without reservation. I am confident that she will bring her unique combination of creativity, leadership, and drive to the Youth Advisory Committee and contribute meaningfully to its community engagement next year. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information. Sincerely, Bailey Udoutch Business and Marketing Instructor / DECA Advisor Tri-Valley ROP / Dublin High School udoutchbailey@dublinusd.org 272 273 274 275 March 27, 2026 Dear Youth Advisory Committee, I am pleased to recommend Shuchi Pannala for Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee. I currently serve as Shuchi’s teacher in Integrated Marketing Communications at Dublin High School, and I can state with confidence that she is a highly collaborative, purpose-driven, and thoughtful student. Shuchi has distinguished herself through her ability to mobilize groups and form lasting communities. She co-founded the non-profit organization, KathaMunch Teens (KMT), which empowers teens to rediscover their cultural roots through the form of theater. Her most recent project, the upcoming original jukebox musical Desi Enough, serves as a powerful example of her leadership and entrepreneurial maturity. To execute this show, Shuchi successfully pitched to the YAC and received $1000 in funding. She single-handedly oversaw all aspects of the production, including writing the original musical, directing, financial management, and coordinating an entire cast, crew, and executive team of over 30 people. This initiative reflects her advanced strategic planning, high-level execution, and remarkable growth in managing complex logistics. I recommend Shuchi Pannala without reservation. I am confident that she will bring her unique combination of creativity, leadership, and drive to the Youth Advisory Committee and contribute meaningfully to its community engagement next year. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information. Sincerely, Bailey Udoutch Business and Marketing Instructor / DECA Advisor Tri-Valley ROP / Dublin High School udoutchbailey@dublinusd.org 276 277 278 279 To the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Panel : I am pleased to endorse Silvia Hilker for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the privilege of working with Silvia for the past two and a half years as her debate coach, beginning when she joined our program as an eighth -grade student . In our time together, Silvia has flourished into an outstanding leader. Over that time, I have watched her develop into an exceptional student leader who consistently thoughtful engagement with community issues, strong collaboration skills, and a genuine commitment to supporting her peers, all skills that would benefit the Youth Advisory Committee greatly. The primary activity in which Silvia has been involved requires students to research and analyze complex public policy issues, consider various sides of an issue, and effectively communicate their ideas in front of others. Silvia is exceptional at debate. She has excellent organizational and research skills and approaches public policy issues with seriousness, genuine curiosity, and respect for her opponents that I have only seen in high -performing seniors. These skills will serve Silvia well on the Youth Advisory Committee as she considers ways to improve Dublin for young people. Silvia will carefully think t hrough how city programs, services, and initiatives can best help kids in Dublin. Silvia is also an outstanding leader in our team community. As a team captain, she is one of the friendliest and most supportive teammates we have. Students who may be shy or nervous when they first start debate with us always seem to relax around Silvia. She has a special way of making people feel comfortable. Throughout her time on the team Silvia has repeatedly demonstrated what it means to be a good teammate by welcoming new students and ensuring they know they have a place on the team. Debate can be overwhelming for new 280 students. Competition can make students feel fearful of making mistakes. Silvia works to ensure that all our students feel included at a time when everyone else is just worried about themselves. Finlly, Silvia has a knack for getting along with others. As mentioned before, debate is a very competitive activity. Students are working hard against each other to win tournaments, qualify for nationals, etc. Despite being in the thick of that competition, Silvia makes friends with students from other schools every tournament. She treats her competitors like teammates, as respectful opponents that she can learn from. This skill of connecting with others will help Silvia tremendously as she learns to work with her fellow Youth Advisory Committee members and engage with City leaders. I have been an educator and coach for over 12 years. In my time working with students, I have had the pleasure of meeting many wonderful young leaders. However, students like Silvia who can expertly combine strong leadership skills with compassion and a ra zor-sharp intellect are few and far between. Silvia will bring her same passion and strong work ethic to this committee. She would be a remarkable voice for the youth of Dublin and a thoughtful partner in improving programs for Dublin’s youth. Please consider my full support and endorsement of Silvia Hilker. Thank you for your time and for the work you do representing our youth. I cannot wait to see the great things Silvia accomplishes as a member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Sincerely, Matthew Gomez Debate Director, Able2Shine LLC 385-602-2857 gomezm14@unlv.nevada.edu 281 Sdfsdfdsfsdf March 19, 2026 To the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Commission Selection Committee, To Whom It May Concern, I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Siv Hilker, a highly motivated and intellectually engaged 10th-grade student at Emerald High School who is seeking to join Dublin’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). I have had the opportunity to observe Siv’s academic and extracurricular dedication, and I can confidently say that they possess the initiative, leadership, and insight necessary to make a meaningful contribution to youth civic engagement in our community. Siv is deeply committed to increasing political awareness and participation among young people. They have articulated a thoughtful and compelling goal: to bridge the gap between the impact local policies have on youth and the limited influence youth often have on those policies. Their perspective reflects both maturity and a strong sense of civic responsibility. They recognize that fostering understanding of governmental processes is essential to empowering students to advocate for themselves, and they are driven to create spaces where youth voices are not only heard but valued. In addition to their vision, Siv brings substantial experience in leadership and communication. As the co-founder, coach, and organizer of Emerald’s Policy Team, they have demonstrated exceptional ability in guiding peers through complex topics, encouraging multi-perspective analysis, and cultivating constructive dialogue. Their patience and clarity as a teacher are evident through their work both within their school and as a Teacher Assistant for the international debate program Able2Shine. Their academic engagement, particularly in AP Seminar, further highlights their strength in research, 282 presentation, and analytical writing—skills that are critical for effective policy discussion and community outreach. Siv is also highly perceptive when identifying challenges facing their peers. They have thoughtfully recognized that many students in Dublin struggle with overwhelming academic and extracurricular commitments, which often limit their ability to engage in civic activities. Rather than viewing this as a barrier, they propose proactive solutions—bringing opportunities directly to students in familiar environments and integrating engagement into existing routines. Their ideas for outreach, such as leveraging school clubs and community gathering spaces instead of relying solely on social media, demonstrate both creativity and practicality. Despite an already demanding schedule—including participation in approximately 15 debate tournaments annually, weekly coaching responsibilities, and upcoming leadership in Model United Nations—this student continues to seek opportunities for growth and service. Their acceptance into prestigious debate institutes and recognition in academic competitions further reflect their intellectual curiosity and dedication to excellence. In every respect, this student exemplifies the qualities of a thoughtful leader, an effective communicator, and a proactive community member. I do not doubt that they will bring energy, insight, and a strong sense of purpose to the Youth Advisory Committee and that their contributions will positively impact both their peers and the broader Dublin community. I wholeheartedly recommend this student for membership in Dublin’s YAC. Please feel free to contact me if additional information would be helpful at (925) 551-4040 ext. 4872. Sincerely, Veronica Wienholz EHS Social Studies Department 283 284 285 286 University of California San Francisco UCSF Fresno Center for Medical Education and Research 155 N. Fresno Street Fresno, CA 93701 tel: 559.499. fax: 559.499. email@fresno.ucsf.edu www.fresno.ucsf.edu UCSF School of Medicine Fresno Branch Campus 155 N. Fresno Street, Fresno, CA 93701-2302 | www.fresno.ucsf.edu Department of Internal Medicine 155 N Fresno St. Fresno, CA 93701-2302 tel: (559) 499-6500 hiral.patel@ucsf.edu March 18th, 2026 I am writing to offer my strong support for Sofia Lewis in her application to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As a physician, clinical faculty member at UCSF Fresno, and Associate Program Director for the Internal Medicine Residency Program, I have had the privilege of mentoring learners at all stages, from high school students to resident physicians. Among my mentees, Sofia stands out as an exceptionally motivated, thoughtful, and community-oriented individual. Through our time together, she has consistently impressed me with her initiative, maturity, and genuine desire to make a difference. She is bright and motivated, and she approaches new opportunities with curiosity and purpose. What stands out most is how much she truly cares about her community and uplifting those around her. Sofia has shown strong leadership skills through her extensive extracurricular involvement. Her role as a St udent Ambassador for Emerald High School’s Academic Foundations program highlights her ability to support her peers while strengthening her organizational and communication skills. Additionally, as a homeroom delegate on the student council, she actively r epresents her classmates and brings their perspectives forward in a thoughtful and respectful way, which is especially important for a role like this. Her commitment to service is equally commendable. Through her volunteer work at the Alameda County Librar y, Sofia collaborated with both teens and adults to organize programs and events, gaining valuable experience in community engagement. She has also participated in the Dublin L.E.A.D. program, where she supported city staff with summer camps and helped supervise younger children. In each of these settings, she has shown her strong teamwork skills, reliability and ability to adapt easily to new situations. Sofia is someone who brings determination, kindness, and a collaborative mindset to everything she do es. She listens well, communicates clearly, and looks for ways to contribute and improve the spaces she is part of. I have no doubt she will bring thoughtfulness and a strong sense of responsibility to the Youth Advisory Committee. 287 I give Sofia my highest recommendation and believe she will be a valuable asset in helping shape programs and initiatives that positively impact youth in the Dublin community. Please feel free to contact me at hiral.patel@ucsf.edu if you have any further questions. Sincerely, Hiral Patel, DO Assistant Clinical Professor Associate Program Director UCSF Fresno Internal Medicine Residency Program Site Director—Community Regional Medical Center 288 289 290 291 292 Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, It is my pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Trisha Bollapragada in support of her application to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As a registered nurse and mentor who has worked closely with Trisha over the past several years, I have had the opportunity to observe not only her dedication to youth mental health advocacy, but also her remarkable growth as a leader. I ﬁrst began working with Trisha during the early stages of her involvement with MANSE Minds, where she demonstrated strong initiative and a genuine interest in serving her community. Since then, I have seen her develop signiﬁcantly in both her level of commitment and her ability to manage responsibilities. Over time, she has taken on increasingly complex projects while balancing academic and extracurricular demands, demonstrating a level of time management and accountability that is well beyond what is typical for her age. In addition to her consistency and work ethic, Trisha has shown notable growth in her communication skills. She engages thoughtfully with peers, professionals, and community members, and approaches conversations—particularly those surrounding mental health; with care, clarity, and respect. She is attentive in listening, intentional in her responses, and able to foster environments where others feel comfortable and heard. Through her leadership in MANSE Minds, Trisha has moved beyond simply initiating ideas to effectively sustaining and expanding them. She follows through on commitments, actively seeks feedback, and applies that feedback to strengthen her work. Her approach reﬂects both maturity and a clear sense of purpose, as she is consistently motivated by the impact she can create within her community. Based on the growth and dedication I have witnessed over the years, I am conﬁdent that Trisha will be a valuable and reliable member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. She brings a thoughtful perspective on youth needs, particularly in the area of mental health, along with the organizational skills and initiative necessary to contribute meaningfully to community efforts. Please feel free to contact me if further information is needed. Sincerely, Elizabeth Williams Transport Nurse, Kaiser Permanente 293 294 295 296 To Whom It May Concern, I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Uddhav Kasarabada, a sophomore at Emerald High School, whom I have had the privilege of coaching for the past two years as the Head Coach of the Emerald High School badminton team. During this time, I have come to know Uddhav as an exceptionally dedicated, thoughtful, and team-oriented individual. As a student-athlete and Varsity Team Captain, he consistently demonstrates discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic. He approaches every practice with focus and determination, always striving to improve not only his own performance but also to support and uplift his teammates. What stands out most about Uddhav is his character. He is respectful, responsible, and genuinely considerate of others. Whether he is helping newer players develop their skills or contributing positively to team dynamics, he leads by example. His ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with peers makes him a natural fit for any group that values teamwork and mutual respect. I understand that the Youth Advisory Committee for the City of Dublin seeks motivated and creative young individuals who are eager to contribute ideas and provide meaningful input on community programs and activities. I am confident that Uddhav would be an outstanding addition to this committee. His maturity, initiative, and willingness to engage thoughtfully with others would allow him to contribute valuable perspectives and help foster a positive environment. Uddhav is not only a strong student-athlete but also a young person of integrity and purpose. I have no doubt that he will take this opportunity seriously and represent his peers with thoughtfulness and enthusiasm. I wholeheartedly recommend Uddhav Kasarabada for the Youth Advisory Committee. Please feel free to contact me if you require any additional information. Sincerely, Eric Sih Head Coach, Badminton Emerald High School 297 298 299 300 To the Youth Advisory Panel Selection Committee, It is my distinct pleasure to recommend Veda Raman for a position on your Youth Advisory Panel. As Veda’s AP Chemistry teacher at Emerald High School, I have had the opportunity to observe not only her intellectual curiosity but also her remarkable ability to lead and collaborate within a high-pressure academic environment. In AP Chemistry, Veda stands out for her analytical mindset. Whether we are discussing Acid-Base Equilibrium or complex Titrations, she approaches problems with a level of patience and precision that is rare. She does not just seek the correct answer; she seeks to understand the "why" behind the data. This brand of critical thinking is essential for an advisory role, where the ability to dissect complex issues and propose logical solutions is paramount. Beyond her 4.0 GPA, Veda’s commitment to service is evident in her extensive extracurricular profile. As the President and Founder of the Girls Who Code Club, she has demonstrated the initiative required to build a community from the ground up. Her work as a Youth Program Assistant for the SPCA and her 200+ hours of service as a Silver Award-winning Girl Scout further prove that she is a dedicated advocate for her community. She understands how to represent a cause and communicate effectively with both peers and adults. Veda’s background as a Scholar-Athlete and an Orchestra Section Leader highlights her ability to work within a team. On an advisory panel, the most valuable members are those who can offer a strong voice while remaining receptive to others. Veda balances these traits perfectly. She is a natural diplomat who leads with empathy and evidence-based reasoning. Veda Raman is a rare student who pairs high-level scientific discipline with a genuine heart for public service. I am confident she will provide insightful, mature, and actionable contributions to your panel. I recommend her without reservation. Sincerely, Nicole Faggiano Educator at Emerald High AP Chemistry Teacher SciOly Coach/SNHS & Physics Club Advisor 301 302 303 304 Education That Inspires Lifelong Learning PRINCIPAL Lenni Velez ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS Chiharu Kitchens Goff Peppler EMERALD HIGH SCHOOL COURAGE ⧫ CRITICAL LEARNER ⧫ CHARACTER ⧫ COMPASSION ⧫ COMMUNITY 3600 CentralParkway, Dublin, CA 94568 ◆ (P) 925-551-4040 ◆ (F) 925-551-4008 Miguel Baez | CTE ENG/CS ILT To Whom It May Concern, With great pleasure, I recommend Vipul Etikela for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As his current Computer Science teacher, I have had the privilege of knowing Vipul this current school year and have consistently been impressed by his character, work ethic, and enthusiasm. Vipul is particularly interested in making a difference in his community. During this year ’s project involving APIs, Vipul independently created an app that used the current weather forecast through information on the internet to illustrate what the weather was. This demonstrated his capacity to understand complex systems and working on a project that others can find useful. Vipul possesses a desirable combination of academic resilience and interpersonal skills. He consistently works towards high marks in his assignments, demonstrating a strong intellectual curiosity and a dedication to learning. Beyond academics, Vipul excels at collaboration. He works exceptionally well with others, fostering a positive and productive environment in group projects and classroom activities. He is a good listener, respectfully considers the ideas of others, and contributes constructively to group efforts. Furthermore, Vipul exhibits a genuine respect for his peers, teachers, and the school community. He is polite, considerate, and consistently demonstrates integrity in his actions. Vipul understands the importance of ethical behavior, particularly in the realm of technology. I have witnessed his responsible use of technology in the classroom, and I am confident that he will continue to utilize technology ethically and responsibly in a leadership role. I believe that Vipul has the potential to be a valuable asset to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee program. His strong academic record, collaborative spirit, respectful demeanor, and ethical approach to technology make him an ideal candidate. I am confident that hewill embrace the challenges of leadership and contribute positively to the school community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions. Sincerely, Miguel Baez www.ehs.dublinusd.org 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 March 16, 2026 To Whom It May Concern: I am pleased to write this letter as a recommendation for Yusuf Ahmad for a position on the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). I have known Yusuf since he was in the second grade and I have had the pleasure of watching him grow academically, socially and develop a strong sense of self. I see many exceptional leadership qualities in Yusuf that make him an ideal candidate for this role. Yusuf has a deep, long-standing commitment to community service. His dedication to giving back to the community is seen through his compassion within different volunteer roles, like participation in Humanitarian Day, packing food and hygiene kits, and delivering meals to seniors through the Alameda County Food Bank. He also works at Stanford Children’s Hospital, where he brings joy to children in long-term care by delivering blankets and toys. Yusuf has taken significant initiative within the Dublin Unified School District. He serves on the Anti-Hate Speech and Inclusion Committee, where he learned to collaborate effectively with others to foster a more welcoming environment. Yusuf ’s effectiveness stems from his collaborative nature; he understands true representation comes from actively seeking out and listening to diverse student perspectives. Yusuf is a proven organizer; as the lead organizer of the Eid Food Drive, he successfully coordinated with students across all schools within the district to benefit the local community. Having successfully managed the food drive, Yusuf proved he possesses the leadership and organizational maturity required to scale initiatives at a city-wide level. Yusuf possesses a strong understanding of the challenges facing Dublin’s youth today, including mental health, academic pressure, and the need for inclusive spaces. He is passionate about giving teens a voice and has creative ideas for engagement, such as organizing a Black History Month. His ability to balance these responsibilities while maintaining a focus on service leadership is truly remarkable. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend Yusuf Ahmad for the Youth Advisory Committee. His leadership, organizational skills, and genuine desire to provide a platform for youth voices to make Dublin a more supportive place will make him a valuable asset to your committee. Sincerely, Lorianne R. Ventura, ED.D. Director, Curriculum and Instruction 1 312 Attachment 2 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320 321 322 323 324 325