Introducing the 2022-2023 CGSA
By George Pritchard ‘23 and Margot Camp ‘23
Over the last few weeks, the Catlin Gabel Upper School students elected members of the 2022-23 Catlin Gabel Student Association. There were elections for five positions, and each candidate gave an in person or virtual speech vying for the spot.
The voting took place shortly after the speeches and the CGSA was selected for next year. Here are your CGSA representatives for next year.
CGSA President: Ben Rosenfeld
The head of the CGSA has the most roles and the most authority. Rosenfeld will be responsible for coordinating Upper School assemblies, as well as representing the student body in discussion and on the Board of Trustees.
“As president, I'm planning on increasing overall student input and supporting my fellow CGSA officials. Specifically, I hope to improve club sign-ups and make the budget completely transparent. I'm looking forward to C&C volleyball, where I can debut my underrated bumping talent." Rosenfeld says.
CGSA Vice President: Keola Edelen-Hare
The CGSA Vice President works closely with the CGSA president, and shares many of the responsibilities. Additionally, Edelen-Hare, who served as the junior class co-president this year, will work with the alumni association and the incoming students to cultivate a welcoming CGS community. He will also be responsible for running the class elections.
“Next year I plan on building common space for current news, activism opportunities, hiring flyers, internship details and more. I also plan on starting events such as the CG Flea and possibly a clothing or bake fairs. In general doing more enjoyable fundraising gives way for all the grades to have fun. I will also make sure to do my best in the role of admissions, alumni events, and orientation nights. I will take all feedback into account, so maybe next year we could have a say in immersives or electives,” said Edelen-Hare.
Treasurer: Donnie Reuther
The CGSA Treasurer manages the CGSA budget. Ruether will be tasked with allocating funds for clubs and class activities. Additionally, as treasurer, Ruether will be responsible for organizing and funding Takeaway Day.
“I’m really excited to work on implementing my Instagram posts that have the breakdowns on the treasury budget, because I think it will be a really interesting way for everyone to get their information and hopefully we can expand it to other departments of the CGSA as well,” said Reuther.
Secretary: Maxim Kim
The CGSA secretary is the bridge between the students, and the CGSA. Kim will be taking notes at CGSA meetings, managing the CGSA webpage and helping allocate student carpool spots. Along with these responsibilities, Kim will represent the CGSA in Yearbook and Booster Club meetings.
“I outlined most of my plans for next year in my speech—increasing transparency and school spirit—but as for what I’m looking forward to, I’m mostly excited to be part of the higher up decision making. Being aware and in control of some of the changes at Catlin provides a nice sense of security. Along with this, I’m also just eager to be working together with the other CGSA members to improve the school for both myself and younger students like my sister, said” Kim.
Inclusivity Coordinator: Niah Sei
The CGSA Inclusivity Coordinator is the voice of the student body. Sei will help plan the yearly Diversity Summit and MLK assembly and work closely with the Director of Inclusion and Outreach, Connie Kim-Gervey. Sei will also sit on the Board of Inclusivity and will work with the faculty and parent inclusivity coordinators.
“If there’s anything I’ve learned in doing DEI work, it’s that mistakes are inevitable, but that’s the whole point because this is a learning process which is exactly why we need to start by taking viable action steps in the right direction and learn and improve from them. I am committed to doing the work that it takes to make sure you all feel comfortable coming to with your concerns, ideas, or questions and I will do everything in my power to be an advocate for student voices and experiences. I look forward to working not only with you my fellow students but faculty and staff to make this a better school community for us all,” said Sei.
Check out the CGSA Instagram: @catlin.cgsa
https://www.instagram.com/catlin.cgsa/?hl=en