Recent Hastings College graduate Maxwell Blankenship was elected as the Young Adult Advisory Delegate (YAAD) to represent the Central Nebraska Presbytery at the 227th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Blankenship, a theatre major and christian ministry student from Queen Creek, Arizona, graduated May 9. The assembly takes place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, June 22 through July 2.
The General Assembly is the church’s highest council, meeting every two years to act as a representative voice for the entire denomination. While most voting commissioners are elders, the church established the YAAD category in 1970 to ensure younger generations have a direct say in church business.
“It’s an honor to serve the church in any capacity at this level,” said Rev. Doodle Harris, Hastings College chaplain. “Watching Maxwell embrace their faith life and their sense of leadership within the church has been inspiring.” Harris, who will also represent the College at the assembly, encouraged Blankenship to apply for the role.
Blankenship is one of about 50 young adults nationwide chosen for this position. They’ll have the opportunity to influence church leaders on topics ranging from theology to current events.
Throughout the meetings, Blankenship will debate resolutions and amendments on the assembly floor, advise commissioners on key committee decisions, and even lead worship and opening prayers.
By participating in these sessions, Blankenship ensures that the ideas and voices of young people are heard by those making the church’s most significant decisions.
Blankenship plans to attend Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary in the fall.
Hastings College is a four-year residential college that focuses on student academic and extracurricular achievement. Founded in 1882, the College is dedicated to student success and service to the community. Discover more at hastings.edu.