Selected students will explore cybersecurity, broadband technology, and tech leadership during the 2026–2027 academic year.
The Iowa Communications Network (ICN) has selected its next group of Iowa high school students to participate in the Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC).
The council provides students an opportunity to research and discuss Internet topics, explore Iowa's technology companies, learn coding fundamentals, complete cybersecurity certification training, and engage directly with technology leaders. Throughout the school year, participants connect monthly with ICN staff, complete a cybersecurity community service project, and gain industry insights from executive guest speakers. Last year's students discussed a variety of subjects like broadband access in schools, cybersecurity, automated transportation, and wireless technology.
ICN congratulates the following students selected for the 2026-2027 SYBAC council:
- Syon Aggarwal, Johnston High School, Johnston
- Alexander Garcia-Lorenzo, East High School, Des Moines
- Arjun Gujja, Waukee High School, Waukee
- Kizek Hanson, Marion Independent High School, Cedar Rapids
- Carter Hjelmeland, Janesville High School, Janesville
- William Hunter, Davis County High School, Bloomfield
- Lincoln Kessel, Theodore Roosevelt High School, Des Moines
- Zachary Knutson, Bishop Heelan High School, Sioux City
- Claire Lu, Ames High School, Ames
- Maryl Meeboer, Pleasant Valley High School, Bettendorf
- Roxanne Ngotho, Xavier High School, Cedar Rapids
- Aidon Norton, Thomas Jefferson High School, Cedar Rapids
- Helen Peng, Cedar Falls High School, Cedar Falls
- Gabe Rittgers, Dike-New Hartford High School, Dike
- Ahan Tandon, Cedar Falls High School, Cedar Falls
- Parker Thurston, North Tama High School, Traer
SYBAC focuses on gathering youth feedback while mentoring the next generation of digital leaders in Iowa. Meetings are held virtually from September through April, allowing students from across the state to participate without travel constraints.
This marks ICN’s 12th year coordinating the council, which launched during the 2015–2016 school year.
To follow the students’ initiatives throughout the year, visit our SYBAC webpage.