The class of 2025 was the first to experience Agenda Committee’s new class officer election process. Amid national controversies about amplifying individual voices, MFS community members opened up about the new process’s importance in promoting student expression.
Looking on as the candidates discussed innovative policy and fundraiser ideas, Azaria Coleman-Stokes ’25 appreciated being able to listen to her fellow classmates in a live and interactive environment: “I have really enjoyed [the process] so far. Listening to the candidates speak in person and being able to ask specific questions have added an extra layer of trust. They have really good points, and I am excited to see what they can do.”
Candidates Maddie Calixto ’25 and Luke Iacono ’25 expanded on these sentiments through their perspectives of running in the election. Calixto said, “I was excited to hear all the different problems students felt passionate about. The questions opened me up to new ideas on how we should fix certain issues.” Iacono added, “Seeing [the other candidates] use the live experience to embrace their unique skills, talents, and creativity was really special. It definitely added to the overall experience.”
Overseeing the election process, Agenda Committee Co-Clerk Andrew Mercantini ’23 spoke about the importance of having increased dialogue between the candidates and students. “The student-submitted question and answer form was a perfect way to get a balance of the candidates’ opinions and student inquiries. It also allowed candidates to move away from the monotone one-minute speeches of years past,” Mercantini articulated. “Overall, despite the large number of candidates, the process went really smoothly, and I am hopeful for future elections.”
Junior Class President Heera Dalal ’23 echoed Mercantini’s opinion: “I really loved the new format, specifically with the Q&A. I was impressed with how the candidates catered to the students’ concerns. There was definitely an increased level of connection.”
Along with the Agenda Committee Co-Clerks, Upper School Director Noah Rachlin supervised the process from afar. He expressed optimism about the process’s social values: “This new election style allows individuals to share their thoughts in real-time and be available for questions. Giving people the opportunity to speak for themselves in real-time has some real value. As well, the question and answer form provided important back-and-forth between students and folks running for a class officer position.”
Agenda Committee is currently in the process of re-evaluating the new process for the upcoming election cycle. However, as of right now, no formal amendments have been made.
