Mayor of Aurora, John Laesch honored an Aurora University student at Tuesday night’s Committee of the Whole meeting for being selected to represent the State of Illinois at the 2026 College Student Congress presented by the Henry Clay Center in Washington, D.C..
Giselle Martinez, who is majoring in political science, public policy, and business, joined just 50 other students from across the nation to participate in the rigorous two-week program, which took place from May 18 through May 29.
The Congress is designed to help students cultivate essential personal character skills vital for future leaders in the realms of public policy, politics, diplomacy, and contemporary leadership through engagement with lawmakers, academics, government relations experts, and policy advisors.
“This is an outstanding honor for Giselle, her family, and the City of Aurora,” mayor John Laesch said.
“I commend Giselle for her hard work, dedication, and success and look forward to her continued progress within the public policy field.”
A key component of the Congress includes a public policy project administered in partnership with the University of Kentucky’s Martin School of Public Policy and Administration. Through the project, participants had the opportunity to research and develop a bipartisan solution for a policy change currently facing the nation.
“I was honored to be selected to partake in this program, representing both the City of Aurora and the State of Illinois,” Martinez said.
“It was a very intense program that was filled with great experiences. I am very grateful to the Aurora community and to be honored by the mayor and aldermen.”
Martinez credited her mother, Ana, who runs the successful MTZ Income Tax Services on the City’s West Side, for the prestigious accomplishment.
“My mom is my biggest inspiration,” Martinez said. “She always encourages me to go after what I want, and I sincerely appreciate her continued support.”
— City of Aurora government