Andres Mata

Andres Mata is a 2017 graduate of Salina South High School and a 2021 graduate of Bethany College. With a lifelong commitment to public service, he has been actively involved in politics and community engagement since the age of nine.

At eleven, Andres led a successful fundraising campaign for Haiti, raising over $3,400 in just two weeks. By age thirteen, he was appointed to the Salina Human Relations Commission by Mayor Norm Jennings, and later appointed by Mayor Jon Blanchard to serve on the Salina City Planning Commission from 2015 to 2017, amplifying his voice in local government and community development.

While at Bethany College, Andres was recognized for his leadership and community impact. He received the 2019-2020 Student Leader Community Award for his research on food insecurity, which inspired community conversations and contributed to the creation of the Dala Pantry in Lindsborg.

From 2017 to 2021, Andres gained valuable experience lobbying on behalf of everyday Americans in Washington, D.C., further developing his expertise in policy and advocacy.

Outside of civic work, Andres enjoys traveling, following professional sports, and spending time with loved ones.