Ryan Engels, WHS Graduate, Receives Honor
Congratulations to Ryan Engels, WHS Class of 2023, who was awarded the Spirer/Dueker Student Humanitarian Achievement Award from the University of Connecticut Student Life Awards. This award recognizes an undergraduate for outstanding contributions to public service. A committed advocate for civic engagement, Ryan has demonstrated a deep dedication to public service at the local, state, and federal levels. As the Founder and Executive Director of the Connecticut Youth Political Advocacy Center (CYPAC), he leads efforts to expand youth access to government and policymaking. Under his leadership, CYPAC has grown to over 100 members and launched many impactful initiatives, such as a mentorship program connecting students with public officials, a statewide internship database, the development of voter education resources, and the establishment of legislative priorities.
Beyond his nonprofit work, Ryan serves as a Senator in the Undergraduate Student Government and as President of Sigma Alpha Epsilon at UConn. He has also interned in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Connecticut General Assembly, and the Connecticut Office of the Secretary of the State, working on legislative research, constituent advocacy, and election processes.
Ryan remains actively involved in Westbrook, where at 18, he became the town’s youngest Commissioner, serving for two years on the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission. He also influenced policy as a Youth Outreach Advisor to the Coastal Resiliency Committee, addressing climate challenges in coastal communities and ensuring young voices had a seat at the table.
Ryan is a sophomore at the University of Connecticut, majoring in political science with a minor in geography.
