EXTON, PA — Student leaders from across Chester County gathered on May 21 to celebrate a year of civic engagement, leadership development, and meaningful dialogue during the Chester County Intermediate Unit’s annual Student Forum Banquet.
Held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Exton, the event recognized the accomplishments of Student Forum participants who spent the school year exploring important community issues, developing leadership skills, and building connections with peers from public, non-public, and charter schools throughout the county.
The atmosphere was both celebratory and reflective as students looked back on months of discussions, projects, and experiences that challenged them to think critically about issues affecting their schools and communities.
Throughout the year, forum members met monthly to discuss topics ranging from immigration and customs enforcement in local communities to mental health support, cell phone policies, and access to community resources. Students also participated in educational experiences, including a visit to the National Iron & Steel Heritage Museum in Coatesville.
For many participants, the forum provided an opportunity to develop confidence while learning how to lead and advocate for others.
“I’ll be using these topics we discussed and applying them in the real world,” said Joel Kwon, a junior at Conestoga High School and this year’s Student Forum president. “I think that just having an opportunity to be on the board of this great group brings me so much joy and so much motivation to work harder and become a better leader for these people.”
The evening also featured a keynote presentation from Aaron Pitt Jr., a former Student Forum participant who is now a nursing student at Drexel University and a patient care technician at Pennsylvania Hospital. Drawing from his own experiences, Pitt encouraged students to focus on personal growth and supporting others rather than comparing themselves to their peers.
“Comparison can really halt you from accomplishing what you were destined to do,” Pitt told attendees. “But if you take the time to look at someone else with the lens of love, kindness, and appreciation, then comparison dies.”
Students also reflected on the practical skills and confidence they gained through the program.
“I’ve also learned how to work with all different kinds of people, how to solve problems, and how to use my voice in bigger environments,” noted Angelina Cappelli, a junior at Unionville High School and Student Forum treasurer.
Organizers believe the forum’s greatest strength is its ability to bring together students from diverse backgrounds while encouraging thoughtful conversations and collaborative problem-solving.
“Not only did the Student Forum provide a place for students to use their voices to discuss issues within their district, but it brought together a community for students to grow and continue to learn in their journey as students,” explained Kathy Gurnee, special events coordinator at the CCIU.
The CCIU recognized the Children’s Fund of Chester County for sponsoring the Student Forum, as well as the students, advisors, educators, guest speakers, and volunteer leaders who contributed to the program throughout the year. Organizers also thanked the forum’s student leadership team for helping guide discussions and activities during the school year.
The Chester County Student Forum will return next school year, continuing its mission of empowering young leaders to engage in civic dialogue, strengthen their leadership skills, and help shape the future of their schools and communities.
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