Leadership Begins in NDA Halls, Grows in Future

Gina Napoli

Student leaders prove to be influential figures when around the intimidating yet exciting environment of high school and at NDA, there are several leadership positions.

These leadership roles include a set of student council members such as a president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, and a class representative for each TCB. There is also an executive student council group that consists of multiple cabinet members and an executive president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary.

These leadership positions are filled by all different grade levels and prove to be influential for students who want to explore outside of their comfort zones.

“Being a freshman class officer has helped me come out of my comfort zone by teaching me to assign tasks to others rather than trying to do it all myself. As an officer, I get to see how everyone’s specific skill sets can come together to achieve great things,” freshman class officer Karenna Badoni said.

Not only are there student council leadership positions, but there are also senior link crew leaders and ambassadors from each grade level. The student ambassadors are interviewed and selected by Ms. Nicci Brown, the NDA Admissions Director, and link crew leaders go through an interview process during their junior year.

A student leader has several responsibilities. They help guide younger students and are seen as role models to those who need direction within the school environment.

The ambassadors have several jobs throughout the year at NDA.

“As an ambassador, I work primarily with prospective students and admissions events. I run tours, host shadows, and help out with activities such as open house,” Ambassador and junior Ally Westmeyer said.

Student leaders also have unique characteristics that make them stand out.

“I think a school leader is someone who demonstrates a good example of our school values in and outside of school,” sophomore ambassador Emma Viertlbeck said.

Not only do school leaders uphold the values of their school, but they aren’t afraid to show school pride. Their confidence helps students who might be shy come out of their comfort zone and have fun.

“I have lots of pride in my school, and I want to share all the wonderful things about NDA with new students and their families. I love meeting new people and making them feel welcome,” Emma said.

School leaders also assist students who might need academic help. For example, the senior link leaders tutor the freshmen and help them study for tests.

“I tutor the freshmen in my Link Crew class by quizzing them on theology tests or helping them with homework they are struggling with,” senior and Link Crew leader Giana Pinardo said.

Through different positions and responsibilities, school leaders help others navigate around the sometimes scary parts of high school. Each leader has a unique personality that makes her stand out as a role model for students who need someone to look up to.