2025-2026 National Student Council Officer Candidates

David Arowolo, Eastern Technical High School, Baltimore, MD

I’m a sophomore at Eastern Technical High School in Baltimore, MD, and I’m running for president. My leadership journey began in fifth grade when I ran for our school’s student council.

During the dark time of the pandemic, I was able to find light in learning. I learned so much about society and our interconnectedness, the value of empathy, and the importance of activism in a community. These experiences shaped my knowledge and passion for leadership. Leadership to me has always been about empowering others and paving the way for meaningful change. From serving as an ambassador of the National Association of Student Councils (NASC), Maryland Association of Student Councils (MASC) Treasurer, and working as a youth council member on UNICEF USA, my leadership journey has been dedicated to amplifying student voices and ensuring young leaders like us have the tools to make an impact.

My reasons for running for president in this election are simple, but my vision for NASC is bold. My plan includes expanding leadership resources by developing and distributing five new toolkits, presentation templates, and guides to support student councils nationwide. To increase student engagement, my plan includes hosting at least three virtual town halls, ensuring student voices are heard, and working with NASC leadership to create a student council advocacy guide, helping councils secure funding and representation.

Together, we’ll empower leaders, amplify voices, and expand opportunities. Let’s take NASC to the next level because if not us, who?

Dillon Mills, Orange County High School, Orange, VA

I’m a junior at Orange County High School in Orange, VA, and I’m running for president. My leadership journey began in 6th grade when I joined the Future Business Leaders of America Club at my school. I placed fifth in the gigital citizenship competition but was unable to advance due to COVID. I resumed my leadership pursuit in eighth grade when I became the president of my middle school’s National Junior Honor Society chapter.

As a sophomore, I joined my school’s student council association and became an executive member. In my junior year I became vice president and the later became president after our previous president ended up quitting, making me the first junior to hold this position at my school.

I am also my school’s student representative for our school board. This year I have achieved things I never thought possible. I have created spirit events, pep rallies, and even charity events. Most importantly, I have helped reshape my school and helped other students enjoy school.

I believe that, yes, school is meant for learning, but it is also important to have fun. Our school years shape the people we become, so encouraging fun and creativity in schools is crucial for our nation.

Jamyson Posey, Fairmont Senior High School, Fairmont, WV

I’m a junior at Fairmont Senior High School in Fairmont, WV, and I’m running for president. My leadership journey began in middle school. I had started at a new school where I knew a maximum of five kids. Student council was my safe space. I attended meetings and state council events, falling in love with student government. I entered high school, and continued leading when I was elected president of my class my freshman and sophomore years.

My life took an unexpected turn, when I went from performing on the stage to the mat, as I joined my school’s competitive cheer team. I navigated the unique ways of cheer team but brought a familiar aspect along with me: leadership. I was also the first junior to be elected to a student body position as student body vice president.

I then had the honor of being elected to serve as the NASC vice president of communications. This past year, I have met with more than 30 students across the nation to discuss various topics including gun laws in America, the NASC Conference in Chicago, and much more. I believe I’m equipped to serve this council again. My goal is to maximize student voices, help students participate in service, and collaborate with others near and far.

Mark Durden, Legend High School, Parker, CO

I’m a sophomore at Legend High School in Parker, CO, and I’m running for president. At the end of my freshman year, I was elected sophomore class president. This motivated me in many ways and helped me develop leadership skills such as problem solving, communication, and teamwork. I act as a liaison between students, school administration, district representatives, and town council members. In each role, I work hard to advocate for positive changes.

At the district level, I serve on the student advisory group, and I was selected to be part of a youth council, which allows me to share the needs of students at the town level.

I have worked hard throughout this year to communicate opportunities and activities to students. I truly represent my peers and ensure their voices are heard in decisions that matter. Building connections with all school staff, district employees, and town council members has taught me how these relationships are intertwined and work together.

As a member of NSC, I want to continue to be a voice for students and positively impact students across the nation.

Aileen Kim, H.P. Baldwin High School, Wailuku, HI

I’m a junior at H.P. Baldwin High School in Wailuku, HI, and I’m running for vice president of leadership development. I’m truly honored to be a candidate for the National Student Council, and I can honestly say that a few years ago, I never imagined the impact I could have on my community and beyond.

Throughout my journey of learning the core aspects of leadership, I’ve been fortunate to meet incredible friends and mentors who have supported me every step of the way. Leadership is not just about guiding others, it’s about making a lasting impact that inspires others to do the same, and I’m excited for the opportunity to continue growing and making a difference alongside all of you!

Henry Nguyen, Ocean Lakes High School, Virginia Beach, VA

I’m a junior at Ocean Lakes High School in Virginia Beach, VA, and I’m running for vice president of leadership development. I started my leadership journey as an eager freshman, ready to conquer the world. I joined every club, seized every opportunity, and tried new things like band and wrestling.

But soon, I realized I was just a small fish in a vast ocean. If I wanted to make an impact, I needed to grow, both in size and character. Wrestling taught me grit and gratitude through tough practices, long fundraisers, and days when quitting felt easier than continuing. By joining my school’s student council executive board, I learned the true meaning of service, commitment, and integrity. These are values that would shape me into the leader I strive to be.

Now is the time, during these periods of mass chaos and movement, to step up and inspire leadership for our generation. I am committed to guiding others, embodying the call from 1 Peter 5:2-3, as a leader “eager to serve” and “not lording over those entrusted to you.”

I aim to create opportunities for students to test and develop their leadership skills, grow their vision, and set meaningful goals. While some say our generation lacks ambition, I am determined to foster a community driven by purpose, action, and the pursuit of goals, proving them wrong.

Mevlut Atay, Triad Math and Science Academy in Greensboro, NC

I am a junior at Triad Math and Science Academy in Greensboro, NC, and I’m running for vice president of leadership development. Leadership, to me, has never been about prestige; it is about doing the next most important thing. My own leadership experience started in the sixth grade when I started a petition to save the jobs of two teachers during COVID-19. From an individual perspective, I focused on what I could do and took action alone. However, with time and experience, my understanding of leadership has and continues to change.

I’ve learned the importance of working as a community. I’ve learned to make leadership more accessible for students. As student government president, I’ve helped students launch clubs, organize events, and advocate for causes they care about. I’ve led multicultural programs, coached academic teams, and built initiatives that bring people together to achieve the next most important thing for them. Through these experiences, I’ve come to understand leadership is empowering others. It’s not just about making decisions; it’s about giving students the tools and confidence to lead with purpose.

However, I realize that I am still learning what leadership means every day. That’s why I’m running for vice president of leadership development. I want to ensure that every student leader, irrespective of their background, is given the skills, mentorship, and opportunities to develop into the leader they aspire to be. Together, we can make leadership more inclusive, empowering, and impactful for all students. I’d be honored to have your support.

Molly Kaldahl, Millard South High School, Omaha, NE

I’m a junior at Millard South High School in Omaha, NE, and I’m running for vice president of leadership development. My leadership journey started with the small things: helping classmates, playing with new kids, and eventually using my voice to make a difference in my community. As a freshman on student council, I stood out not for being the loudest but for my drive, commitment, and ability to connect with others. With encouragement and my desire to do more, I joined the Nebraska Association of Student Councils (NASC). I’ve had the honor of serving as vice president and now as state president advocating for and leading change.

In this role, I’ve organized statewide service projects to benefit the foster care community, collaborated with member councils, increased membership, and worked with students to create their leadership toolboxes. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about being the loudest or most outgoing; it’s about helping others find their strengths and empowering them to make a difference.

As vice president of leadership development, my main goal would be to create accessible digital resources. Interactive activity videos and downloadable guides can help councils across the country build confident leaders. My experience this year as vice president of my school council has deepened my passion for leadership development. I’ve participated in camps, designed activities, and hosted one-on-one evaluations to help fellow members grow, learning that there is a leader in everyone.

Together, we can ensure that every student council member has the confidence to inspire positive change. I love taking on new challenges and roles to the best of my abilities and NSC would be no exception.

Carolina Pullen, Southwestern Educational Society, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico

I’m a sophomore at Southwestern Educational Society in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, and I’m running for vice president of service. I have always been outgoing, creative, and organized, and ever since sixth grade I’ve been a class representative within student council, offering my best. My efforts led me to win the Outstanding Student Award in my eighth grade promotion for not only having excellent grades but for my eagerness to learn and my participation in co-curricular activities and working for the school.

For the past two years. I have been class president, leading incredible community service projects to help children in need, improve our school facilities, and help the elderly. I am also treasurer of my schools Athletic Association and I’m the historian for the Joy Seekers Sorority. In addition to managing our social media, I actively work to improve the communication among my fellow sisters, as well as organizing service projects to help animal shelters, the elderly, and our beaches stay clean.

I’m running for vice president of service because I posses the necessary qualities to further implement community service projects within the National Student Council alongside my fellow officers.

Lachlan Reiners, Sartell High School, Sartell, MN

I’m a junior at Sartell High School in Sartell, MN, and I’m running for vice president of service. I have volunteered for AmeriCorps, The Food Shelf, my church as a youth representative, and KAPE (a drug and alcohol prevention committee) as well as serving on student council at my previous school for three years, holding the position of vice president my sophomore year. A week after getting elected as the president and student representative, I was told we were moving. In Sartell, it took time to acquaint myself with everything, but eventually I started to lead or co-lead a few committees on my new student council. I also began to volunteer within my community and was recently chosen as a cross country captain for next season as well as an executive board member on our divisional council board.

I try to live my life by my favorite quote, “Be the change you want to see in the world.: This has motivated me to join councils and volunteer for various organizations. Being on the National Student Council would give me the opportunity to advocate for my peers and let them know that as students, we do have the power to change things. We just need the courage to take the first step.

Robinson Chen, Ocean Lakes High School, Virginia Beach, VA

I’m a junior at Ocean Lakes High School in Virginia Beach, VA, and I’m running for vice president of service. I truly hope to promote the message of leadership through service on a national level and create a brighter future together.

Since 2023, I’ve had the privilege of serving on my school’s student council executive board as both a member, committee chair, and as a current co-chair of communications. Throughout my tenure, I’ve proudly dedicated my time to planning and leading several successful schoolwide and citywide service projects and charitable fundraisers.

Along with leading and serving within my city, I’ve also contributed my services to the international community. Over the summer, I served as a prison missionary and as a missionary to Indigenous peoples in Honduras. As a missionary, I visited and provided aid to pastors and children at remote churches, prisoners in their cell blocks, and families in local communities. My experience serving and collaborating at the local level and on an international level makes me confident that I can effectively contribute to NSC and empower students nationwide to serve their communities and bring positive change.

Furthermore, as a member of the Debate Team and the Quiz Bowl Team at my school, I recognize and would promote the values of preparation, knowledge, and initiative, all values that are essential to leadership, service, and excellence. The culmination of my experiences, passion, and dedication makes me confident that I would be the best fit for vice president of service. Let’s strive to promote leadership through service, lead by example, and serve our communities all over the country together!

Shenaya Verma, North Reading High School, North Reading, MA

I’m a junior at North Reading High School in North Reading, MA, and I’m running for vice president of service. Entering high school was absolutely terrifying for me. I was always the type of person who never felt comfortable stepping out of their little bubble. But there was just something about student council that immediately clicked with me, and suddenly I was volunteering every chance I got. Without even realizing it, I slowly began stepping out of my bubble.

From planning my school’s Homecoming to helping raise more than $16,000 for my school’s Polar Plunge, I finally pinpointed what drew me in. It wasn’t just the work itself, but it was doing it alongside my peers. Being part of a team made me feel like I was valued and part of something so much bigger. With each event I worked on, my confidence in myself and my work grew, and I began noticing the sense of community and real change I was creating for others, and not just myself. Through my unwavering commitment and dedication, I was honored to win an Massachusetts Association of Student Counicls (MASC) Award at my state conference, marking the moment I truly realized just how much I transformed, and the impact I’d made.

Then, after being elected historian and powerblock administrator, the confidence and leadership skills I had gained encouraged me to take on even bigger challenges, which is when I developed The Sunshine Project, an organization dedicated to aiding underprivileged children nationwide.

I’m running for vice president of service because I want to give back to the organization that absolutely transformed my life. I want to ensure that every student, whether they enter high school confident or are starting out shy, finds the same community, opportunities, and belonging as I did.

Brex Lopez, Captain Shreve High School, Shreveport, LA

I’m a junior at Captain Shreve High School in Shreveport, LA, and I’m running for vice president of membership. Student leadership is arguably the most important thing to have in a school. Kids are the future of our communities and our nation, and it is important to expose teenagers to the process and qualities of being a leader before it is too late.

I started my leadership journey rather late, but I cannot fathom how quickly I have progressed thanks to student council organizations such as the Louisiana Association of Student Councils (LASC) and the Southern Association of Student Councils (SASC). In 2025, I had the honor to run for LASC state president and the experience was life-changing. Although I did not win, I believe I learned more from failure. I learned that a true leader keeps their head held high through adversity and picks up the people around them. Learning how to network, work effectively with others, and lead productively are traits more kids need to learn in order to make an impact in their schools, communities, and in their working lives later on.

If I have the opportunity, I hope to be able to share the life-changing experiences I have had in student council with other teen leaders. I truly think the connections I can make through NSC will allow me to make a difference inside of my school and nationwide by inspiring teenagers to make a difference, too.

Cullen Murillo, Thibodaux High School in Thibodaux, LA

I’m a junior at Thibodaux High School in Thibodaux, LA, and I’m running for vice president of membership. Growing up in a family of athletes, I was the child who was never interested in playing on a field or court. I tried out many hobbies and extracurricular activities throughout my childhood, but discovering the leadership world my freshman year truly changed my life.

Since then, I have served in numerous leadership positions in organizations such as Beta Club, Drama Club, and Band. However, I hold the student council nearest and dearest to my heart. I currently serve as the vice president of my school’s council, and I also serve on the state board of the Louisiana Association of Student Councils (LASC) as the District IV president. I’ve learned the most about leadership by attending statewide conventions and workshops. This past summer, I made the transition from being a delegate at LASC Summer Workshop to being a junior counselor, leading a group of my own.

Experiences like this helped to shape me into the leader I am today, and I would love the chance to give back what I’ve learned on the national level. Everyone, at some point in their life, has the motivation to shoot for the stars and go for their dreams. Being a member of NSC is my dream, and my voice will be a voice for all.

Mardi Roques, St. John’s High School, San Juan, Puerto Rico

I’m a junior at St. John’s High School in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and I’m running for vice president of membership. As a competitive tennis player, I’ve had the privilege of representing Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, an experience that has taught me the importance of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. However, my greatest passion lies in bringing people together, amplifying student voices, and creating spaces where everyone belongs.

My student council journey began in elementary school, where I served as a fifth grade class representative. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of stepping up in different roles, including elementary school president, eighth grade vice president, president of NJHS, and secretary general of the Model Organization of American States (2025), where I will lead students from across the Americas in meaningful discussions on policy and diplomacy. I’ve also served as member at large and secretary for my school’s executive board, positions that have strengthened my ability to engage students, encourage participation, and foster an inclusive community.

I’m running for vice president of membership because I believe every student deserves to feel seen, heard, and empowered. This role is all about expanding NASC’s reach and impact, and if elected, I will work to increase membership, boost engagement, and ensure that all students, regardless of background, have the opportunity to be part of this incredible association. Let’s make NASC stronger than ever, because together, we grow!

Chris Tao, Lincoln High School, Sioux Falls, SD

I’m a junior at Lincoln High School in Sioux Falls, SD, and I’m running for vice president of communications. Living in a rural state, I’ve witnessed how limited infrastructure creates barriers between students and opportunities. The problem isn’t a lack of opportunities; it’s the missing foundation for connecting students to them.

As my school’s student council publicist, I have transformed this challenge into impact. By redesigning our communication strategy through engaging graphics, videos, and targeted outreach, we achieved record-high attendance at school events and unprecedented student involvement in community initiatives. More importantly, we broke down the stigma that often prevents students from stepping into leadership roles in smaller communities.

This success drove me to expand my impact through Encore Music, a high school music initiative that connects high school musicians with middle school students for free private lessons. Through strategic communication and outreach across multiple school districts, we’ve grown from a small volunteer group to more than 30 student mentors serving more than 50 developing musicians, demonstrating how effective communication can expand access to opportunities.

I envision a National Student Council that bridges gaps through innovative communication strategies, ensuring every student, regardless of location or resources, can access the opportunities they deserve. By leveraging my experience in breaking down communication barriers and my perspective from an underrepresented state, I aim to help build a more connected and accessible future for student leadership nationwide.

Elena Bueter, Gulliver Preparatory School, Miami, FL

I’m a sophomore at Gulliver Preparatory School in Miami, FL, and I’m running for vice president of communications. I have served as an officer of my school’s student council since freshman year, and I’m an officer of my school’s Catholic Student Union and the Red Cross Club.

I strongly identify as a right-brain thinker, using creativity day-to-day. Whether creating innovative crisis arcs in Model UN, performing musical theatre on stage, or using my abilities to assist my team in a water polo game, I’m always thinking of ways to advance and help my peers.

I enjoy all things fashion, and as of last summer, I sew and create patterns for garments. When not caught up in the chaos of high school life, you can find me at the beach or exploring everywhere and anywhere with friends. I cannot wait to further my passion for assisting others alongside a team of like-minded leaders!

Javier Aldana, Timber Creek High School, Orlando, FL

I’m a sophomore at Timber Creek High School in Orlando, FL, and I’m running for vice president of communications. I am incredibly passionate about student leadership and have dedicated my entire high school career to serving my school, district, and community. I was born and raised in Huntington Beach, CA, but moved across the country three years ago. A friend of mine on our cross country team who was heavily involved in our school’s student government encouraged me to participate.

It was around this time that domestic violence became prevalent in my household, and I did not believe I had the energy to commit to such an organization. But because of my friend’s leadership and passion, I decided to push past my struggles and join student government, where I found a community that supports me through anything. They have inspired me to become a better version of myself every day. I was elected sophomore class vice president, and today I am District 3 secretary for my state, overseeing over 35 schools in the Central Florida region.

I am more than ready to bring my passion and willingness to serve students around our nation and help them overcome any challenges.

Sadie Givens, Elizabethtown Area High School, Elizabethtown, PA

I’m a junior at Elizabethtown Area High School in Elizabethtown, PA, and I’m running for vice president of communications. Leadership is about many different things, but the most important is empowering others to lead. When I was in fifth grade, I joined the student council as a brand new student in public school discovering my passion for leadership. This small move marked the start of an eight-year journey in student council. I was elected publicity secretary prior to my junior year.

In this role, I run our student council’s Instagram, @eahsstuco, and manage communications between our officer team, committee chairs, and members of our student council. I have learned the importance of working alongside a team, delegation, effective communication, and problem-solving.

I’m running for vice president of communications because I want to be a voice in the loudness of today’s growing world. My main commitment would be to amplify students’ voices, advocating for the issues that matter to everyone. If elected, I plan to build connections between students across many schools, expanding student involvement, and ensuring all voices are heard.

As a leader, I want to inspire others to lead. I believe with my personal experiences and growth, I can serve in this position effectively. I am eager to contribute to this team and I am thankful for this opportunity to join the National Student Council.

Anika Walsh, Elizabethtown Area High School, Elizabethtown, PA

I’m a junior at Elizabethtown Area High School in Elizabethtown, PA, and I’m running for vice president of advocacy.  As a student representative on my district’s school board, I’ve seen firsthand how policies impact students and have worked to ensure student perspectives are acknowledged and valued. While advocating against restrictive policies, expanding student representation, and presenting workshops at leadership conferences, my mission has been to amplify student voices and drive toward meaningful change.

I believe that the National Student Council should be a bridge between students and decision-makers. If elected, I will focus on strengthening student-led initiatives, increasing collaboration with policymakers, and providing councils with the tools to turn concerns into action. My plan includes expanding advocacy resources through webinars, toolkits, and networking opportunities, ensuring that every student regardless of background has the support to speak up and make an impact.

Leadership isn’t just about taking a stand; it’s about ensuring others can, too. Through my work in student government, environmental advocacy, and community service, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of allowing students to lead. With my vision of VOICE: Vision, Outreach, Inclusion, Change, and Empowerment, I’m committed to building a future where every student’s voice shapes the world that affects them. Your voice. Our future. Let’s make it happen together!

Jake Munzaa, Vista Murrieta High School, Murrieta, CA

I’m a junior at Vista Murrieta High School in Murrieta, CA, and I’m running for pice President of advocacy. Over the years, I’ve been involved in leadership positions like vice president for the Council of African American Parents’ Junior/Senior Workshop and co-commissioner for the Riverside County Youth Advisory Council. Through organizing events like college tours, food pantry drives, and college prep webinars, I’ve learned how important it is to create spaces where all voices are heard and valued.

Additionally, being a part of ASB and Link Crew has also given me the chance to work closely with diverse groups of students, planning events and supporting our community. These experiences have fueled my passion for advocacy and shown me how much we can accomplish when we work together. I’m motivated to take this position seriously and will ensure it starts off strong, especially since this is the first year with the new position of vice president of advocacy. It’s the perfect time to make sure that advocacy is at the forefront of everything we do, and I’m ready to hit the ground running.

If I’m elected, I will make sure that all voices are heard and everyone has a platform to advocate for what they believe in. I’m ready to get to work and ensure that this position is impactful, starting from day one.

James Gallivan, Somers High School, Somers, NY

I’m a junior at Somers High School in Somers, NY, and I’m running for vice president of advocacy. Six years ago, I joined Student Council with a mission to make positive change for students and teachers. Now, I am taking this mission to the National Student Council. From serving as New York’s first-ever representative to the National Student Council to serving on the student board of New York State’s Student Council Association to serving as my school’s student council president, I have been dedicated to positive change on all levels of education.

Issues such as mental health, school safety, and funding for education need student perspectives more than ever. As vice president of advocacy, I will ensure that student voices are being adequately heard on these issues. I will draw on my previous experiences, such as connecting with state lawmakers to discuss phone policy in schools and serving as a student liaison to my district’s board of education, in order to best serve you.

Education can’t exist without students, so we deserve to be at the table when education is being discussed. I will ensure that we have a voice to enable positive change.

Nolawi Shewangzaw, Advanced Technologies Academy, Las Vegas, NV

I’m a junior at Advanced Technologies Academy in Las Vegas, NV, and I’m running for vice president of advocacy. My first experience with student council was in middle school, when I walked into one meeting halfway through the year and quickly left, afraid I wasn’t worthy or didn’t belong. By the time I forgot about student council altogether and went on to high school, I happened to end up enrolled in a class, “Principles of Leadership,” not knowing it was student council.

The contagious passion of the people around me inspired me not only to stay but to run for freshman class president. After a humbling defeat, I picked myself up and continued to work for the student body, knowing that all the passion I felt and hoped to imbue in all the students around me never went unnoticed. This belief of mine was confirmed when a vacancy opened up in the freshman class office, and I was chosen to fill it.

Since then, I’ve served sophomore class president, student body treasurer, and hopefully one day, student body president. I’ve quickly I learned that to lead is to listen. All the things that I’ve accomplished, from planning dances to organizing charity and community service events, could never have been done without the knowledge that I have people to lean on.

Thanks to student council, I’ve grown into a leader who’s recognized on many levels, in and out of school, for his community service work. Should you elect me, I hope to grow into someone you can lean on, too.

Audrey Schroeder, Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School, West Chester, PA

I’m a junior at Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School in West Chester, PA, and I’m running for secretary. When I was younger, I was diagnosed with several medical conditions. Due to these and my introverted nature, I was often in the background. My parents encouraged me to join the swim team as a way to build up my lung strength and make friends. In an interesting turn of events, I became a good enough swimmer to the point that people would look at me and think: leader. It felt liberating to go from someone weak to someone strong, and so began my leadership journey.

I’ve become an advocate for kids who have health issues like me. I have helped to organize bake sales, garage sales, and increase participation in 5K’s to raise awareness and money for cystic fibrosis research. I’ve also become a leader in the pool. I’m a cornerstone member of my club team, and I’ll be the next captain of my high school varsity team.

I joined Pennsylvania State Senator Katie Muth’s youth advisory council to learn more about public policy and how the government shapes what we as citizens can do. Outside of helping those who struggle with health issues, I’ve learned to be a strong leader from my positions as secretary of my school’s student council and as a district representative for Students for Education in Pennsylvania. With my experience, I am well suited to be secretary of the National Student Council because I know what it feels like to be weak so I can help others grow to become strong.

Katie Kelly, New Trier High School, Winnetka, IL

I’m a junior at New Trier High School in Winnetka, IL, and I’m running for secretary. Leadership has shaped my life, making me kind and compassionate and a good listener. From a young age, I was drawn to community service, a passion I believe is rooted in both my family and my faith.

My journey began on my farm, where my brother and I grew and sold pumpkins for charity. Over eight years, we donated all proceeds to various causes. This spirit of giving inspired me to join Girl Scouts where I built a little free library for my community, created a butterfly house, and maintained the school garden.

I addressed a need in my community surrounding books, something I love. I created a library from scratch for a special education school, raising $2,000 and collecting more than 3,000 books. Even after completing the required hours, I continue to organize annual book drives.

As a sophomore, I created a book club for people who share a love of reading. I also have a lead role in a partnership to increase literacy rates in an area where they are low. Working with all the advisories within my grade, I have helped facilitate this project and make sure everyone is a part of it. As secretary, I would demonstrate this same unwavering commitment to serve.

Lucy Chorman, Milford High School, Milford, DE

I’m a junior at Milford High School in Milford, DE, and I’m running for secretary. My leadership journey began in middle school when I first expressed an interest in leading committees, hosting events, and advocating for the improvement of my school. In high school, this passion continued to grow. Upon joining our school’s student government association, I was elected to serve on theexecutive board as a parliamentarian, and as the vice president for my class.

Outside of school, I serve as a member of the Kent County Youth Philanthropy Board, the Delaware State Fair Junior Board, and vice president of the Milford FFA Chapter. I also hold a private pilot’s license.

I am excited and prepared to serve the National Student Counci, and I believe I am a fantastic fit for the role.

Yahminisakti Chandrasekaran, Alexander High School, Douglasville, GA

I’m a sophomore at Alexander High School in Douglasville, GA, and I’m running for secretary. My leadership journey started in the eighth grade when I volunteered at my local food pantry. That experience forever impacted my view of servant leadership. From collaborating with the staff and fellow volunteers to helping provide food, I learned that being a team player drives forward the success of an organization and uplifts the people who are served.

Since my freshman year, I have served as my class president. I also serve as my HOSA chapter’s competitive events officer and as my Future Business Leaders of America chapter’s historian. I have dedicated myself to serving the members of my organizations and the student body as a whole by representing their interests, advocating and spreading awareness for key issues and topics, and leading several initiatives.

I want to serve as your next secretary of the National Student Council because I want to represent and advocate for the interests and voices of every single student at the national level. If given the opportunity, I will use my platform to wholeheartedly lead students across America through service and compassion.

Weston Constantineau, Marvin Ridge Middle School, Waxhaw, NC

I’m a seventh grader at Marvin Ridge Middle School in Waxhaw, NC, and I’m running for junior vice president of leadership development. I’m student body historian of our student council. This is my second year on the council and have learned much from this experience. I have attended many conferences, and they have all impacted me greatly.

I have gained many skills in my leadership journey, ranging from connecting with people and building relationships to learning how to step up into a leadership role. I am invested in leadership development, and I would be an impactful addition to the National Student Council.

Rylee Wilson, Mexia Junior School, Mexia, TX

I’m a seventh grader Mexia Junior School in Mexia, TX, and I’m running for junior vice president of service. I serce as vice president of my school’s student council where I assist in planning meetings, going over the agenda, and communicating between our group and our school administrators. I have presented in front of my peers, staff, and community members, and I’ve coordinated events to raise money for our school, student council, and volunteer organizations.

I’m passionate about helping people. This year I organized our local food drive, volunteered at our community Black History Month program, and volunteered with Special Olympics.

As part of the National Student Council I would continue to help others and bring more ideas to my small town community. I am a quick learner, and I am motivated. I also put everything I have into projects and take pride in the outcome. I want others to succeed and this includes NSC.

Ru Challagundla, Marvin Ridge Middle School, Waxhaw, NC

I’m a seventh grader at Marvin Ridge Middle School in Waxhaw, NC, and I’m running for junior vice president of membership. I am a motivated and driven leader, who is dedicated to encouraging personal development and empowering students nationwide. My passions include student council, community service, dance, and most of all leadership.

Although being a strong leader has always been a significant part of my life, my leadership journey truly began two years ago when I joined the student council. To me, student council is more than just a club, it’s a connected community. I’m also involved in our state student council association, and I’ve attended district and state conferences and a summer leadership workshop. These experiences have given me valuable leadership skills, which I’ve applied to improve my school.

I want to help create a nation of empowered leaders. I’m honored to be considered for this position and excited to help NASC grow.

Emalyn Klosterman, Mexia Junior High School, Mexia, TX

I’m a seventh grader at Mexia Junior High School in Mexia, TX, and I’m excited to run for junior vice president of communications. My leadership journey began when I was age 11 on my softball team. During the season, I noticed our team wasn’t performing at its best, and I realized that communication and teamwork were areas where we needed to improve. To address this, I took the initiative to organize team-building events and create opportunities for the team to bond and communicate more effectively.

Beyond sports, I’m actively involved in my church, where I volunteer to help younger members and assist in the sound booth. As a cheerleader at my school, I work to motivate and lead my peers while fostering school pride. I am also student council president.

Throughout all of these experiences, I’ve always made it a priority to set a good example and create a positive environment for others. I’m eager to contribute to our nation and help bring about positive change.

Saanvi Khara, St. Joseph School, Danville, PA

I’m a sixth grader at St. Joseph School in Danville, PA, and I’m running for junior vice president of advocacy. Advocacy has always been important to me, but last summer, I got to take it to the next level at the Pennsylvania Association of Student Councils (PASC) Blue Summer Camp. It was my first time away from home, and I was nervous, but I ended up learning so much and meeting amazing people who were just as passionate about making a difference as I am.

After camp, I was selected to present my workshop, “Potion of Positivity,” at the PASC State Convention. The only problem? My school wasn’t part of NASC, so I couldn’t officially attend. But that didn’t stop me! With my mom as my chaperone and support from NSC President Anjali Verma and other NSC members, I was able to present. Even though I was the youngest one there, everyone made me feel welcome and inspired me to keep going. Besides science, I love giving back. Through Glamour Gals, I visit nursing homes to paint nails and play games with residents who don’t have any other family. For this, I earned the Intergenerational Service Award.

I want to bring my leadership, energy, and passion to the National Student Council. I love inspiring others, and I believe that with the right mindset, we can all make a difference.