Pulaski Times

Alma High School student Landen Coursey exchanged the scenery of Crawford County for an opportunity in Washington, D.C., where he served as a Senate Page this summer.

Coursey was one of 52 Senate Pages responsible for preparing the U.S. Senate chamber for daily business. Duties included distributing documents to senators' desks, assisting in the cloakrooms, supporting chamber staff, and sitting near the dais during sessions to assist members delivering remarks or casting votes. During his tenure, he witnessed a historic address by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who became the only world leader to deliver a fourth speech before American lawmakers in a joint meeting of Congress.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as a Senate Page. Being able to experience and play a small part in the inner workings and operations of the Senate has given me a new appreciation for our democratic process and has changed my perspective for the better. I will always look back at this program with fondness and gratitude,” Coursey said.

The 17-year-old rising senior earned his appointment from U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR).

“Landen did an excellent job supporting the day-to-day activity of the Senate while observing legislative processes and procedures firsthand. I am confident this experience will inspire him to continue exploring his interest in civics and public service. Our entire state can be proud of his participation in this prestigious program,” Boozman said.

Coursey is president of the Alma High School student council and an active member of the school's dance team, chamber choir, Model United Nations, and National Honor Society chapters. He is also involved in community service through his local church.

Landen is the son of JD and Bekah Coursey.

The Senate Page program began in 1829 when Senator Daniel Webster appointed the first Senate Page. Today, it remains a unique, highly selective opportunity for high school juniors with strong academic standing to learn firsthand about what is often referred to as “the world’s greatest deliberative body.”