Venuti returns as Head Page for the 2026 Legislative Session
Jacob Venuti, a well-known resident of Leland, will return to the Mississippi House of Representatives this January, once again serving as Head Page for the 2026 Legislative Session. Venuti is currently a sophomore and political science major at the University of Mississippi.
Venuti’s commitment to public service began early. At age 15, he joined the Leland Fire Department, assisting firefighters on calls until he formally became a firefighter a few years later. He remains the youngest fireman in the department’s history. At 16, he made history again as the youngest person ever inducted into Rotary.
A graduate of Saint Joseph Catholic School, Venuti credits teacher and student council advisor Brian McGaugh with inspiring his interest in government and law—an interest that ultimately formed his academic path.
Despite his college commitments, Venuti has stayed closely connected to his hometown. He currently serves as advisor to Ward 5 Alderwoman Nancy Jo King. When asked about Mr. Venuti, King replied with, “ I have been an alderwoman for a few terms now, I got the hang of things, but when I brought Jacob on as my advisor, he helped me see things from a bunch of different views. He constantly is researching statutes, stays up to date on our city’s policies, and I am willing to bet that he knows Robert’s Rules of Order like the back of his hand. He helps keep me on track with different procedures of things, so I can make the best choices for Ward 5.”
King said their working relationship is close-knit. “We speak on the phone probably 15 times a day; and, just like the recent tragedy Leland experienced, Jacob was up. He may have been at college, but I promise you he was awake and talking to me, doesn’t matter the time of day for him. When something happens, Jacob is going to do what he can to help.”
Venuti first served as Head Page during the 2025 Legislative Session. When invited to return for 2026, he initially hesitated. Support from mentors—including House Communications Officer Renee Dye—helped guide his decision. “God wouldn’t be giving you these opportunities if He didn’t want you to take them,” Dye told him.
Venuti ultimately chose to accept the role once again. “My life is dedicated to God, my family, and the people,” he said. “I want to serve, learn, and help build a better tomorrow. You can never be too young or too bold to make a change.”
He resumes his duties at the Capitol on January 5, 2026.
