Marist students voted for Nicholas Collias as their new student council president Wednesday. Olubukola Onimole came in second place with the votes and will assume the role of vice president. George Kottaras will serve as secretary. Upperclassmen and teachers voted after candidates gave speeches promoting their platforms following the first all-school Mass of this school year. Here are the new president’s responses to an exclusive Q and A with MHS Media:
How do you feel after the election and what do you want to say to the Marist student body?
I have felt honored and blessed by being voted in as student body president because of our rich
history of class presidents, but also excited for what is in store for the coming year. There is
much more to accomplish now but I can guarantee that the future of Marist is in good hands. It
is important for the Marist student body to understand that in order to make improvements or
change, it will take all of us, not just a single person to do it. I say to you: do not be afraid to step
out of your comfort zone and become a leader instead of a follower.
What inspired you to run for student council president?
Being in student council for the past four years, I have seen presidents in action whether it has been leading student sections or pep rallies, giving speeches or providing help to other students, and I have always believed that one day I could fulfill that role as well. I want Marist to be the best possible school it can be and I believe that I can take us there.
How will you make sure that you effectively represent the entire student body and make sure all voices are heard?
Being a part of clubs like NHS, Spanish NHS, investment club, business club,
amnesty international, student ambassadors and sports like football and baseball has opened
my eyes to all sides of Marist. I have heard opinions from each and every corner of our school
which is why I believe I can effectively represent the entirety of our student body. I have also
worked with freshmen through leadership academies and freshman events where I have
become connected with them as well as the rest of the student body.
What are your top goals and initiatives that you will implement at Marist, and how will you go about them?
My number priority as president is student involvement. Whether it is at a pep rally,
homecoming dances, sporting events or other activities, it is crucial that all of us students
become involved in some way. I also plan to implement incentives for these sporting events. By
showing up to games students enter themselves into a raffle to kick a field goal at half-time or a
half court shot during a basketball game for a prize. Also, I want to increase our use of
broadcasting and social media so Marist can continue to be supported by those outside of the
school because that is the type of attention Marist deserves.
