NEW CANAAN, Conn. From helping to design T-shirts for his fellow seniors to making sure incoming freshmen feel at home, William Hennessy is enjoying his term as New Canaan High Schools student body president.
Hennessy, 17, says hes enjoying the work of making things better for his fellow New Canaan High students in the midst of his final year as a high school student.
Hennessy won the presidency last spring. Prior to assuming this high-profile role, he served as a delegate on the schools student council. Its a pretty demanding job, he said.
In addition to overseeing the student council meetings, Hennessy meets weekly with New Canaan Principal Bryan Luizzi to talk about students needs and concerns.
One of Hennessys most important tasks is working on events for New Canaan Highs Spirit Week, the week leading up to homecoming. In addition to special theme days and events like the bonfire lighting and the homecoming dance, Hennessy said hes working with the student council to spur school spirit and unity.
I never thought it would be easy, but there are a lot more pieces to move to get things approved, he said. Its more demanding than I thought, but I did anticipate some of it.
Hennessy also is focused on being approachable to all students. Even though hes a senior, Hennessy says he talks with freshmen and sophomores to hear their ideas. It makes sense as hes also a member of Student Advocates, an on-campus group that hosts workshops on social issues, such as drug abuse, domestic violence, dating and stress.
I feel like Im very approachable and I try to come to everyone from different grades, he said.
The student body presidency, Hennessy added, is an opportunity for him to give back to New Canaan High and leave a legacy that students can feel comfortable, spirited and proud of their school.
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