UPPER SCHOOL STUDENT LEADERSHIP

BY EDUARDO SILVIA, DEAN OF STUDENTS AND ASSISTANT HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL

What do you think of when asked to reflect upon leadership that has had a positive impact on your life?

For some, we might think about leaders among our social institutions. These could be political figures, religious leaders or even school leaders. Others might naturally think of the people in our lives that even though they don’t carry the moniker of a leader, still hold the same characteristics and virtues that we normally associate with great leaders. No matter the inclination we might have, what is becoming increasingly true is that leadership has evolved and continues to redefine itself as our world continues to change. When we think back at the start of the pandemic, we witnessed in real time new leaders stepping up in moments and places that did not exist before to serve our communities. The Tower Hill community was no exception.

In my capacity as Dean of Students, I have the privilege of working closely with our Student Government Association (SGA) on all the things that make our community special. While these particular students do hold elected positions, I would be remiss if I did not point out that my work does not just stop with our SGA, for there are countless other student leaders in the community who contribute with the same dedication and passion that any true leader would. It is perhaps this notion that serves as our north star when it comes to student leadership. The fundamental belief is that leadership can look very different depending on the student, and it is no longer a specific title, position or role. Our student leaders are leaders not because they hold a title, but because they are authentic in their message and humble in their approach.

This year, the Service Learning Board is leading by example and has rolled out several initiatives that continue to strengthen the ties we value with our local community. In January, for the first time, the entire school had a “day on” of service, and it was through the efforts of our student leaders that the day went off without a hitch.

The Green Keys, in their snazzy green sweaters, are another example of leadership in action. With a diverse composition representing various grade levels and interests, they are, in a sense, a snapshot of the

Upper School community. Senior Green Key, Patrick Sullivan, shares how this group has helped shape his view of leadership. “Being a Green Key means that the school has placed trust in me to represent our community and I don’t take it lightly.” When asked what he felt being a Green Key leader has taught him, Patrick responded with, “Definitely communication. I’ve learned to put myself in the shoes of the family I’m touring to better understand their needs and their perspective as a new member of this community. Listening is really important, as well.”

Though both of these groups work behind the scenes throughout the year, it is always wonderful when we can celebrate their achievements and, more importantly, their dedication to the Tower Hill community.

As we look into the future, we are committed to developing leaders who are ready to face the challenges that are still, to us, unknown. We hope to cultivate leaders who value their gifts, as well as their limitations. Leaders who understand well the power of listening. And leaders who understand the importance of collaboration.

The next time you are at a Tower Hill event, look out for the student leaders who are there representing their community with pride. Sure, you will see elected students at the podium, but if you look closely, they will be everywhere. They are the ones helping in the concession stand, the ones greeting you at the front door, the ones running the tech booth and the ones giving you the personalized tour. They are, above all, Hillers.