Local sophomore accepted in Governor’s Page program
Photo submitted Clay County resident, Seylah Brown, participates in a mock trial as a trial attorney at the Cherokee County Courthouse.
By Lorrie Ross
Staff Writer
She may only be in 10th grade, but Seylah Brown has big ambitions. As a matter of fact, her aspirations will soon take her to the state capitol where she will serve as a Governor’s Page from Monday-Thursday, Sept. 9-12.
“I was very excited that I got chosen to be a Governor’s Page,” the young woman said when asked about her acceptance into the program in Raleigh. “I am so honored to represent Clay County and will do so proudly and wholeheartedly.”
The daughter of Silas and Sheba Brown, Seylah is home-schooled and attends the Classical Conversations education program in Murphy. Not only is she the 4-H Rails and Trails Club vice-president and treasurer for the 4-H fly-fishing club, Clay on the Fly, Seylah is also an accomplished musician. She plays both piano and guitar and is the North Mount Zion Youth Band guitarist.
Brown works as a cashier at George’s Paint and Hardware, but she is considering a career in law. “I hope this opportunity will help me to see if I want to work in government and law,” she added. “After doing several mock trials during the Classical Conversations program, I became interested in possibly working for the government or in law. No matter what I do, I want to do and go where the Lord calls me.”
North Carolina’s Governor’s Page Program was founded in 1973. Hosted by VolunteerNC in Raleigh, the program gives North Carolina high school students a chance to have hands-on participation in state government. Pages must wear business attire. She will have the opportunity for growth in four areas: history, civics, service and professional development.
She will be provided a small stipend of $200 for her week in Raleigh; however, housing is not provided and a hotel is going to cost almost that much per night. She will also need meals and a few other expenses. According to her mother, Seylah has been raising money and has $370 so far.
Any donations may be sent to Seylah Brown:
P.O. Box 884
Hayesville, N.C. 28904
Seylah smiled, “I am most looking forward to coming back to Clay County to do the required service project. I am hoping to do something with the special needs population. If you feel led to help me go or have ideas for my project, I would be most grateful and make Clay County proud.”
She is grateful for the program and cannot wait to share with others. “I thank God for this opportunity. He has opened up many doors in my life that I never thought I’d walk through. I am so grateful,” she ended.
To learn more, visit: https://governor.nc.gov/governors-page-program