The Right Honorable Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom, recently spoke remotely with students from the University of South Florida Judy Genshaft Honors College, answering their questions and sharing insights from his office in the Palace of Westminster. The Q&A session, held on Jan. 15, offered students a unique opportunity to engage with a global political leader and discuss pressing issues facing democracies today.
Hoyle discussed democracy, leadership, and the importance of collaboration between the United States and the United Kingdom. Students asked critical questions on topics such as disentangling democracy from politics, restoring public trust in democratic processes, adapting to geopolitical instability, and inspiring young people to invest in their futures while prioritizing free and fair democratic practices.
Sophomore Nico Lavaud, a political science and economics major with a minor in sociology from Miami, Fla., found Hoyle’s enthusiasm particularly motivating.
“I didn’t expect the Speaker to be so enthusiastic about speaking to us,” Lavaud said. “Still, his excitement and engagement showed me that some individuals in positions of power genuinely believe in supporting young people and getting them engaged to help strengthen our democracies, which I very much appreciated.”
As Speaker of the House of Commons, Hoyle presides over debates, determines which members may speak, and selects amendments for consideration. He also serves as an ambassador for the House, representing it both in the UK and abroad. This role involves promoting the work of the House and attending key events and conferences, such as the G7 and G20 Speakers' Conferences, as well as meetings of Speakers from across Britain, Europe, and the Commonwealth. Additionally, the Speaker is often invited to visit other parliaments for bilateral meetings, conferences, and significant events, fostering international collaboration and dialogue.
STUDENT-LED DISCUSSION
The Q&A was initially arranged by UK native and Honors College faculty member, Provost Emeritus Dr. Ralph Wilcox. The students were from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives shaped by their experiences in civic leadership and public policy.
Second-year student Elise Prophete, a political science and sustainability studies double major from Brooklyn, N.Y., has been deeply engaged in civic initiatives during her time at USF. As the USF St. Petersburg Student Government Governor and a Wilcox Scholar, Prophete has contributed to projects such as an organizing fellowship with Generation Vote and a civic action project with Democracy House.
“Having the opportunity to interview Sir Lindsay Hoyle was an unforgettable experience,” Prophete said. “It only reinforced my belief that students like us truly are the future and that we can better the world by engaging in democracy and upholding our freedoms.”
Third-year senior Kelsey Sherman, a double major in sustainability studies and political science from Lake City, Fla., also found the session aligned with her career aspirations. Sherman, who is passionate about environmental protection, interned with State Representative Lindsay Cross during Florida’s 2024 legislative session and later served as deputy campaign manager for Cross’s reelection campaign.
“It still feels surreal that I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to speak with such a prominent leader in UK politics,” Sherman said. “Even with his prestigious title, Mr. Speaker put us all at ease with his warm demeanor and thoughtful answers to our questions, leading to a constructive conversation about global democratic backsliding.”
Senior Matheus Ivanesciuc, a double major in econometrics and quantitative economics and international studies, brought additional perspective to the conversation. Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, Ivanesciuc’s passion for politics began during Brazil’s 2018 presidential election. He gained firsthand legislative experience during his 2023 internship with U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, where he contributed to bills on topics like the national debt and international development.
“Picking the brain of one of the most relevant political figures today was a unique experience,” Ivanesciuc said. “I truly appreciated his thoughtful answers to each question and how receptive and excited he was to share his experience with us.”
THE IMPORTANCE OF LEADERSHIP AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Hoyle expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to speak directly with American students, highlighting the enduring "special relationship" between the two nations. He emphasized the importance of working together to address shared challenges and foster progress on common goals such as trade and peace. He encouraged students to remain active in politics and to become leaders driving positive change.
"Talking with the Speaker of the House of Commons was eye-opening, it showed me how much leadership is about listening and understanding different perspectives," said Sandra Napolitano, a second-year criminology student interested in addressing issues within the criminal justice system. "His eagerness to listen and answer our questions reminded me that even big roles are about connecting with people."
According to Judy Genshaft Endowed Honors Dean Charles Adams, the event reflects the Judy Genshaft Honors College’s commitment to global citizenship and its mission to create meaningful learning opportunities for students by connecting them with global leaders.
“Opportunities like this allow our students to engage directly with influential leaders and gain insights that inspire them to pursue careers in civic leadership and public service,” Adams said. “We look forward to welcoming Mr. Speaker to meet with more Honors students here in our beautiful Tampa Bay region in the near future.”