The Standards of Student Leadership: Enderun Student Government
The echoes of cheers and laughter that once filled Enderun’s halls fell silent during the pandemic. But as campus life stirs awake again, a new era of student leadership dawns, determined to reignite the Titan spirit. Ashley Perez, President, and Abby Uy, Secretary, hit the ground running, their sights set on fostering a vibrant and inclusive community where every Enderun student feels a strong sense of belonging.
The absence of student government since the pandemic left a void, an obvious contrast to the pre-pandemic days Ashley fondly remembers. As a seasoned Enderun Senior High School graduate and current Ambassador Program student, she witnessed firsthand the student government’s active presence and the challenges of rekindling that same level of engagement. Recognizing the struggle for student body involvement, she emphasizes the need for innovative strategies to reignite the community spirit.
Ashley’s platform centers around creating a close-knit community, where students feel valued and supported. Abby, driven by her passion for service and experience in INK and Enderun Student Government, brings her skills to the table, aiming to make a positive impact. Together, their vision revolves around empowering “PROUD titans,” fostering engagement, and breaking down the limitations often associated with a smaller community. Unlike other schools, Enderun houses a small community but that does not stop the two from making it a powerful community.
(Photo above, from left to right: Maria Jessel “Abbie” Uy, Ashley Nicole Perez & Mariella Domingo on an online interview on the Standards of Student Leadership)
Both leaders acknowledge the challenges ahead. Ashley focuses on finding opportunities in attracting new students, while Abby expresses initial anxieties about maintaining engagement throughout the year. Nonetheless, their optimism shines through. They highlight opportunities for growth and positive change through innovative engagement strategies.
Ashley candidly shares her unique “Barbie” campaign concept, emphasizing personal empowerment and the importance of pitching ideas directly to students. Both leaders shared the lack of overall student engagement during the campaign, hoping for increased excitement and participation in the future.
Abby emphasizes the importance of communication and teamwork, while Ashley stresses the crucial balance between dedication and personal well-being. They identify the need to avoid burnout and prioritize the well-being of the entire team alongside achieving platform goals.
The new Enderun Student Government President expresses appreciation for the ongoing support of Student Life and acknowledges the codependent relationship between the two. Ashley shares an idea of conducting “RSO all hands” monthly assembly to foster collaboration and better understand RSO needs. The new cabinet plans to start by engaging RSOs and utilizing their networks to reach out to the wider student body. They also highlight leveraging social media to increase visibility and encourage open communication.
Individually, both student leaders shared their personal advice from their personal experiences and in the Student Government. Abby encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace their potential, while Ashley emphasizes the value of active participation and enjoying the Enderun experience. She reminds students that prioritizing rest is productive and encourages them to seek guidance and community support whenever needed.
Through their actions and vision, the new Enderun Student Government set a new standard for student leadership at Enderun. Understanding that leadership is not about self-promotion, but rather about creating a positive impact on the community. Their dedication, collaborative spirit, and focus on inclusivity set a strong example for future generations of Titans. As they reignite the Titan spirit and empower their fellow students, they serve as living testaments to the true meaning of leadership at Enderun. They continue to let the Titan spirit roar once more!
