When Lauren Goin told her family that she was running for Senior Class President for the Lake Highlands High School Class of 2024, her mother Lisa was surprised. “Lauren had been in leadership roles outside of school in the National Charity League, so it wasn't out of the question,” Lisa says, “but I thought whatever she puts her mind to she will be great, no matter if she was elected or not.”

“I created the slogan 'Get Goin’ with Lauren Goin' which I borrowed from my dad who used it to run for Student President when he was in 6th grade. It’s 2 for 2.” I hung up posters and gave out lollipops and campaigned. I was competing against other smart, capable people,” Lauren explains, “and after our class of 680 students voted, every candidate had an interview with all the principals and admins.  I was surprised when one of the questions was if I could name all the principals, there’s a lot!” Lauren's campaign was successful, and she became Senior Class President, leading a team of four additional senior class officers with Vice President Ellie Baumgarten, Historian Connor Whitmire, Secretary Kate Goodale and Treasurer Megan Haness.

Ms. Pettigrew, beloved by the community as the Senior Class Principal for many years, tragically passed away last year, so Lauren and her team had to produce a new plan. Fortunately, another Principal, Ms. Wildes, took over to guide the team through the transition.  With the support of the past officers' parents, the team was able to put together an even more comprehensive binder of information to guide their activities. They had to think creatively and developed a graphic and slogan, ‘Seniors Roar in 24’.  The ‘Senior Painted Parking Spot’ campaign was expanded this year to more spots in different lots, for which seniors signed up to paint a designated parking spot at the school, where they would park every day. “It was a great fundraiser,” Lisa explains, “with Lauren and her team helping people through the heat of the summer, handing out water to make sure no one passed out. It was so creative - students painted portraits of famous people (including The Beatles), and all types of creative, clever solutions.” 

Lauren has considerable responsibilities culminating in speaking at this year’s upcoming graduation. “We've organized a senior staff basketball game where the seniors play the teachers; fundraisers selling ‘In and Out’ burgers, Nothing but Bundt cakes, and Halloween treats as well as ‘Seniors Roar in 24' tee shirts and yard signs,” she continues. The money we raise goes back to seniors, through a campaign to give an end-of-year gift to every student. “It will be like a lottery, and there will be gifts like flat screen TV's and Air Pods, as well smaller gifts, with something for everyone. It is a school tradition that started during COVID when seniors couldn't have a graduation.’  Her key learnings from her experience have been about communication and inclusivity. “Talking to teachers, to fellow students, working with my senior class officers to make sure our class is being heard - Lake Highlands is diverse, with people and various views on the world, and needs,” she says, “so this has really helped and changed my perspective on the needs of others.”   

Reflecting on Lauren’s success as Senior Class President, Lisa concludes that Lauren is a natural leader. “People like her, they respect her, they are comfortable around her,” she confirms, “she is reliable and authentic - she is who she is, and always tries to lead by a good example. We’re so proud!”