Congratulations Brayden Banks, recipient of the 2026 Dave Obey Young Adult Civic Engagement Award!

The Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service is excited to announce that Brayden Banks is the recipient of the 2026 Dave Obey Young Adult Civic Engagement Award. Banks is a Westosha Central High School graduate who is majoring in Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

The award is named in honor of former Wisconsin Congressman David R. Obey, who served central and northern Wisconsin as a representative from 1969 to 2011. It is awarded annually to a young person who demonstrates leadership abilities including initiative, integrity, and service to others. Recipients also demonstrate a commitment to civic engagement through building relationships throughout the community and working toward positive change.

During his time at UW-Stevens Point, Banks’ work has focused on connecting student advocacy, conservation, public service, and research.

Through the Student Government Association, he has advanced student-centered policy, served on shared governance committees, preserved educational affordability and accessibility, and strengthened campus engagement. Banks has also taken on a vice president role by chairing SGA’s General Assembly and helping guide its transition into the next academic year.

His service beyond campus includes Mississippi River cleanup work with Living Lands & Waters, Louisiana coastal restoration and food access work with Further Along, and animal husbandry and public outreach with Primates Incorporated. As Public Relations Director of the Animal Health and Wellness Club, he helped grow student involvement in animal care, education, and fundraising. Brayden has also elevated undergraduate research by presenting on campus and at conferences hosted by the Society for Neuroscience’s Upper Midwest Chapter and the Wisconsin Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies.

Congratulations, Brayden!