With student council elections for the 2026–27 school year already underway, we are preparing to elect five new members who will take on the responsibility of leading Salesianum into an exciting new year.

The torch will soon be passed from this year’s leaders to a new cohort, but first, a competitive process will determine who will lead Salesianum next. The process is long and intense. Each student who runs for president organizes a campaign to put themselves out there. Candidates hang posters around the school with slogans designed to attract votes, and many post engaging videos on social media that showcase their personalities.

Once campaigning concludes, primary elections begin. Each student votes for three candidates who will advance to the final round. This is the most intense, and arguably most stressful, part of the process. Candidates deliver speeches to the student body during Prep, after which students vote for the two candidates they believe will best represent Salesianum and the gold and white. As Student Council President Abraham Castellanos ’26 explains, “If you don’t end up getting on student council… don’t let that change anything about you.”

Student Council has a significant impact on the school community. Members lead Prep every Tuesday and Friday, run pep rallies and House Games, plan Homecoming, and organize Salsthon, one of the largest and most important events at Salesianum.

Student Council members also attend a retreat in Michigan alongside students from other Salesian schools across the country. There, they reflect on their goals for the year and the kind of role models they want to be. This retreat helps shape the school’s annual theme, this year, “Claim the Name.” As Abraham recalls, “We all heard Father Brian’s homily… and [being authentic and the truest version of yourself] is what we took from it.” The theme is built on three pillars: claiming the name of Salesianum, claiming the name of yourself, and claiming the name of God. Together, these ideas encourage students to embrace authenticity and Live Jesus.

Being part of Student Council does not necessarily mean being the most popular student, but rather possessing strong leadership qualities. Joe Conley ’26 explains, “It’s not the glamorous stuff that defines a good leader, but the nitty gritty.” While students often see speeches and events, much of the work happens behind the scenes. According to Mr. Adams, true leadership requires determination, tenacity, and accountability. Abraham adds that stepping up in uncomfortable situations is another essential quality.

Every student remembers high school, regardless of where they attend. At Salesianum, many of those memories are shaped by Student Council. Much of the fun and community spirit at Sallies can be traced back to their efforts. “We want to be remembered as people who love Salesianum with integrity and pride… and as guys who knew how to have a good time,” says Joe Conley. Because of their impact, it is important to carefully consider who will lead next year. Roman Trubiano ’26 advises candidates: “Don’t try to put on a facade… be yourself, because no one likes someone who wears a mask, and that’s what ‘Claim the Name’ is all about.”

Student Council plays a major role in shaping the year ahead, so choose wisely.

Who do you want to represent Salesianum next year?