Students Advocate for Minnesota Civic Seal Bill at the State Capitol
March 26, 2025
Several Cretin-Derham Hall juniors are currently serving as student ambassadors in the Minnesota Civic Seal Coalition, a statewide initiative working to pass Senate Bill SF-2565. This bill would allow Minnesota students to earn a Civic Seal Award at graduation—recognizing those who go above and beyond in volunteering, leading, and advocating for civic engagement in their communities.
CDH students Mary Jensen '26, Daniel Tolson '26, Nora DeZell '26, Richard Janay '26, and Annie Fiedler '26 are among the 40 student ambassadors supported by adult mentors. Together, they’ve been actively building support for the bill through social media, community outreach, and direct engagement with lawmakers.
Mary Jensen was selected to co-lead the coalition’s communications committee, which manages the Instagram account @mncivicseal, creates signs and flyers, produces videos, and interviews legislators to raise awareness.
On Tuesday, March 24, Mary Jensen and Daniel Tolson testified before the Minnesota Senate Education Committee in support of the bill. Their compelling testimonies helped move the bill forward to its next stage of review. Daniel gave a special shoutout to CDH’s Mock Trial and Debate Club, both of which helped him prepare for this moment.
"These students are living proof that when we invest in civic education and leadership, the results are extraordinary," said Anne Dougherty, Chair of CDH NEXT and Mock Trial coach. "Their ability to speak confidently, build coalitions, and advocate for real change is exactly the kind of learning that lasts a lifetime."
Minnesota would join only 13 other states that currently offer a Civic Seal, helping to ensure that civic engagement is celebrated and encouraged across the state.
"Testifying at the Capitol was one of the most meaningful things I’ve done," said Tolson. "I felt proud to represent CDH and speak up for something that will help students across Minnesota get recognized for leadership and service." Watch the full testimony here (starts at 1:37): Committee on Education Policy - 03/24/25
These students are living out the CDH mission—inspired to learn, lead, and serve.