FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Middlesex County Welcomes Local High School Students as "Warden for a Day"
MIDDLESEX COUNTY, November 06, 2025 - Middlesex County was pleased to welcome five high school students from across the County as “Warden for a Day” on November 4, 2025. The initiative offered an engaging, hands-on opportunity for local students to experience municipal government in action and learn about the important role County Council plays in supporting Middlesex communities.
As part of the experience, students Maitlyn Hsia (Medway High School, Grade 12), Courtney Jones (Medway High School, Grade 10), Sofia Stojdl (Medway High School, Grade 12), Benjamin Watkins (Strathroy District Collegiate Institute, Grade 9) and Ben Wanamaker (Medway High School, Grade 11), joined Warden Brian Ropp for a full day of leadership and learning at the County Administration Building.
The day’s agenda included a welcome and mock swearing-in ceremony, a “Who We Are” presentation, and a guided tour of the Middlesex County Administration Building and the historic Middlesex County Gaol. Students also participated in job shadowing sessions with various departments including Forestry and Natural Heritage, Library Services, Middlesex-London Paramedic Service, and Economic Development and Tourism. Later in the day, students sat down with Warden Ropp to discuss the challenges and rewards of municipal leadership, followed by the opportunity to observe an official Middlesex County Council meeting. This provided students with a behind-the-scenes look at how decisions are made that shape services and support residents across the County.
The County of Middlesex extends its thanks to the participating students for their enthusiasm, thoughtful engagement, and interest in local government throughout the day.
QUOTES:
“Our young people are the future of our communities. By engaging students through initiatives like Warden for a Day, we’re helping them see the impact they can have and encouraging them to take an active role in shaping Middlesex County’s future.” – Warden Brian Ropp
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Middlesex County is an innovative, well-run organization offering high-value programs and services to the best community in which to live, visit, and do business in Southwestern Ontario. The County serves a vibrant, growing community of 81,700 people and offers a great place to call home, offering exceptional lifestyle, a wide variety of local attractions, and a wonderful sense of community.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Middlesex County Media Relations
Legislative Services Division
@email