Fresno County Youth Civic Showcase Brings Student Innovation, Art, and Advocacy to the Tower Theatre

Fresno, CA – The red carpet was rolled out, the spotlight was on, and the energy was electric as students from across Fresno County took center stage at the Youth Civic Engagement Showcase, held at the iconic Tower Theatre. With inspiring student-led projects, dynamic performances, and moving speeches from local leaders, the event marked a bold celebration of civic learning and youth empowerment.

From the moment students entered the theatre, it was lights, camera, action—complete with red carpet interviews led by members of the Youth Service Council. Much like an Oscars-style arrival, student groups representing their civic projects were interviewed under the bright lights, reflecting on their work and the impact of their efforts on their schools and communities. It was an inspiring and energizing start that spotlighted youth voice and set the tone for the evening.

Guests then explored engaging exhibits displayed in the Tower Theatre lounge, featuring projects from Kings River High, Farber Education Center, Sanger High, and Sanger West High School. From hydroponic gardening systems to Bravery Badges that encouraged courage and connection, each presentation offered a glimpse into the creativity and determination driving student efforts across the county.

Outside, performers from Circus Creations greeted families and attendees with captivating entertainment, including a stilt walker, fire spinner, and flow artist, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

The program officially opened with a heartfelt welcome from Dr. Michelle Cantwell-Copher, Fresno County Superintendent of Schools. She was joined by esteemed keynote speakers: Ryan Coe, Director of CIPL at Fresno Unified School District; Joey Munoz, Principal of Edison High School; and Rob Golden, CEO and President of Golden Charter Academy. Each shared powerful messages on the role of civic education, youth leadership, and community engagement.

Taking the spotlight next was Haley Herr, Youth Representative from the Youth Service Council, who energized the crowd as she introduced the student civic project groups presenting live on stage. The lineup of projects included:

• Social Isolation of the Elderly – Farber Education Center

• Puppy Therapy – Quail Lake School

• Healthy Habits – Farber Education Center

• Del Rey Park Revitalization – Sanger West High School

• Monofilament Recycle Bin Initiative – Kings River High

• Inclusivity Mural – Sanger High

• Vanessa Russell Legacy Video – Bullard High School

• Mental Health Awareness Campaign – Youth Service Council

  
  

One highlight of the evening came from Sanger High School, whose students shared the powerful story behind their Inclusivity Mural project. In their interview and stage presentation, they reflected on the skills they gained—how to research, collaborate, and most importantly, how to learn together, work together, and trust each other to bring a shared vision to life.

The night culminated in the highly anticipated award ceremony, recognizing the top three civic projects of the year. Thanks to generous donations from the Bonner Foundation and Dan Jamison, student teams were awarded cash prizes for their outstanding efforts:

• 🥇 1st Place: Puppy Therapy – Quail Lake School, awarded $1,000

• 🥈 2nd Place: Del Rey Park Revitalization – Sanger West High School, awarded $500

• 🥉 3rd Place: Mental Health Awareness Campaign – Youth Service Council, awarded $250

  
  

The Youth Civic Engagement Showcase was more than just an event—it was a full-circle celebration of student agency, civic intelligence, and community connection. From red carpet interviews to the final standing ovations, the evening showcased the depth of talent, compassion, and drive among Fresno County’s young change-makers—proof that the future is not just coming, it’s already here.

See the entire Youth Showcase by clicking the video below