NICEVILLE, Fla. — The City of Niceville’s Youth Advisory Council is entering a new chapter as this year’s group of high school students wrap up their term and prepares to hand the reins to a new team of high school students.
Since the council’s creation more than a decade ago, it has helped shape the next generation of community-minded leaders through service projects and hands-on involvement in local government. This year’s participants continued that tradition with thoughtful outreach, including decorating doors and sending holiday cards to veterans at the Bob Hope Enlisted Village.
In recognition of their efforts, the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) was named one of three recipients of the 2025 Florida League of Cities Youth Council Excellence Award. The award celebrates their dedication to civic engagement and volunteerism, values that have been a hallmark of the Niceville program for years.
Over time, the YAC has become a model for similar groups across Florida. Dozens of alumni have gone on to pursue careers in public service, the military, education, and business.
“I am extremely proud of this Youth Advisory Council cohort and everything they have accomplished,” said Sal Nodjomian.
“They are part of an impressive lineage of young leaders who have participated in our YAC since its inception over 10 years ago. The Niceville YAC remains the gold standard in the State of Florida, with scores of young leaders leveraging their YAC experiences in their professions today.”
The next group of students will be mentored by newly elected City Councilman Doug Tolbert, who praised the outgoing team and said he looks forward to building on their legacy.
“This group’s passion and creativity have been evident in every project they’ve taken on,” said Mr Tolbert.
“It’s inspiring to see how seriously these students take their role in shaping the future of our community.”
Students in grades 9-12 who are interested in joining the Youth Advisory Council are encouraged to complete an official application form and submit it to Interim City Clerk Wendy Farmer. The application process is open year-round.
According to the group’s bylaws, the Niceville Youth Advisory Council is made up of up to five voting members and as many as 15 non-voting members. Each member of the City Council appoints one student representative. The selection process is designed to reflect the structure of the city’s elected leadership.
Those chosen will be expected to attend meetings up to once a month, maintain positive conduct both inside and outside the council chamber, and report on youth-related issues to the City Council.
The YAC Executive Council for 2025-2026 includes Logan Michel, Chairman; Mary Colleen Johnson, Vice Chairman; Eleanor Ballard, Communications Chair; Grayson Schroeder, Executive member; and Addyson Eller, Executive member.
Applications can be downloaded or requested by emailing [email protected].
