Kol Yisroel founder Shmulie Hartstein has been named one of New York’s 2026 Rising Stars of the Year by USLege as part of its inaugural Best in Government Affairs awards.

Hartstein was one of just six individuals statewide selected for the Rising Stars honor, a peer-nominated recognition highlighting emerging leaders making an impact in government affairs and civic engagement.

Through Kol Yisroel, Hartstein has focused on bringing civic education directly to students, helping young people understand how government works while giving them firsthand exposure to the legislative process. During the most recent legislative session, he organized 11 trips to Albany, where students met elected officials, observed government proceedings and learned the importance of civic participation.

Kol Yisroel has also helped register hundreds of new voters and has worked to increase civic engagement within the community.

Hartstein and the other honorees are scheduled to be formally recognized at the Best in Government Affairs Awards ceremony in Albany on September 16.