EXTON, PA — High school students from across Chester County gathered in May at the Hilton Garden Inn in Exton to celebrate the conclusion of the 2024-25 Chester County Student Forum. The annual banquet not only spotlighted an inspiring keynote address but also showcased the achievements of the forum’s student leaders, who shaped a year of meaningful discussion and collaboration.
Led by a student cabinet, the forum introduced significant changes this year, reimagining its format and fostering deeper connections among schools. Abigail Hood, a senior from Avon Grove High School and the forum’s treasurer, reflected on the experience. “It was great; I enjoyed it. I feel like I got to make a huge impact on students, and it was eye-opening for me to be on the cabinet as opposed to just being in the student forum like I was last year,” Hood said.
One of the defining changes was the cabinet’s decision to shift from open discussions to structured debates. This adjustment was aimed at promoting engagement as forum membership grew. “We realized early on that the old format wasn’t working. So, we introduced debates,” Hood explained. “It was a group effort, but it forced me to think outside the box and come up with new ideas to engage people. I feel like that developed my leadership skills.”
The topics debated were both timely and impactful, covering student mental health, cell phone bans, and artificial intelligence in education. Participants gained perspective by exploring multiple viewpoints, often switching sides during debates to challenge their understanding.
This focus on open dialogue was echoed in the keynote address delivered by Marianne Martelli of the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry. “I hope they heard loud and clear that their voices matter. Everything that they think and do matters… and they should never hold back, never not offer an opinion on what affects their lives,” Martelli said. “They are learning valuable skills that they can apply for a lifetime. That makes a better world.”
For many students, the forum was transformative on both a personal and collective level. It also provided an opportunity to learn from peers with diverse life experiences across the county’s schools. “I think my favorite aspect is hearing everyone’s experiences… people who live an hour away from me and have entirely different experiences in school than I do,” said Hood. “That puts me in other people’s shoes and improves my skills and other aspects of my life.”
The banquet served as a culmination of those efforts and a celebration of the friendships, leadership skills, and expanded perspectives gained throughout the year. Kathy Gurnee, special events coordinator for the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), praised the cabinet’s efforts, saying, “This year’s cabinet truly rose to the occasion. They brought in new ideas, led with compassion, and opened their minds to different perspectives. I hope the friendships and understanding they’ve built this year continue long after they graduate.”
Hood acknowledged the teamwork and dedication required behind the scenes. “Put in the work and effort, and work as a team. You are not separate members; you are a cabinet,” she advised future leaders.
Sponsored by the Children’s Fund of Chester County and facilitated by the CCIU, the Chester County Student Forum brings together student leaders from public, private, and charter schools across the county. Through monthly meetings, it provides a platform for thoughtful discussions, leadership development, and cross-school collaboration.
As the senior participants prepare to graduate, their legacy is clear: a student forum that is more vibrant, inclusive, and impactful than ever before.
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