Cypress Woods High School Junior Selected for Prestigious Senate Page Program
Cypress Woods High School junior Carden Truong has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (CFISD) student to be selected for the U.S. Senate Page Program. As one of only 29 high school students chosen nationwide for the Fall 2024 term, Truong had the unique opportunity to serve as a Senate Page from September 2024 to January 2025.
Truong's journey to this prestigious role was no small feat. The rigorous application process required him to submit a detailed résumé, a 500-word essay, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, he had to secure sponsorship from a current U.S. Senator—an honor he received from Texas Senator John Cornyn.
“It’s a great honor to essentially be handpicked by Sen. Cornyn,” Truong said. “I’ve had a longtime interest in government and politics, and I saw the page program as a gateway into federal government.”
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The Senate Page Program, which dates back to the early 19th century, provides students with a front-row seat to the legislative process in the United States Senate. Pages play a crucial role in the daily operations of the Senate, assisting in preparing the chamber for sessions, delivering correspondence and legislative materials, and supporting senators during debates and roll call votes.
“I think the most rewarding part of the program was just being at the center of where it’s all happening,” Truong said. “I got to carry a big bill to the Senate floor. Some of us got to carry in the Electoral College votes from the November presidential election. We’re quite literally carrying history, and the thought of that is pretty incredible.”
Beyond his Senate responsibilities, Truong is deeply involved in his local community. He serves as a member of the CFISD Superintendent’s Student Leadership Council (SSLC), has worked on local political campaigns, and is the founder and president of the Cypress Woods Red Cross Association—a chapter dedicated to supporting those affected by catastrophes and honoring those who have served the country.
“We are incredibly proud of Carden for representing Cypress Woods High School at such a prestigious level,” said Lloyd Turner, principal of Cypress Woods High School. “His participation in the Senate Page Program is a testament to his dedication, intelligence, and commitment to leadership and civic engagement.”
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While participating in the program, Truong and his fellow Senate Pages had the opportunity to explore Washington, D.C., attend historical site visits, and witness key political events firsthand. One particularly profound experience for Truong was attending the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter while he lay in state in the Capitol Rotunda.
“When I said this program changed me, I meant it,” Truong said. “It made me more disciplined, made me better at time management, improved my critical thinking skills, made me sharper, and helped me comprehend more. I grew academically and personally.”
With aspirations to continue his involvement in government and public service, Truong plans to major in political science and government in college. Looking ahead, he envisions a future in politics, with a goal of running for state office.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
