The event was a huge success, with over 300 student leaders and advisors coming together for a weekend full of activities, keynote speeches, and breakout sessions. Traci Spain, the Houston High School SGA sponsor, said that the idea to host the convention began in 2019, but was cut short in 2020 due to the pandemic. This year, with the help of Lauryn Barrett and Hannah Griffin, who served as the TASC Secretary Co-Hosts, Houston SGA was able to complete the plan of hosting their friends from across the state.
The convention featured dynamic keynote speakers, including Heather Schultz, Scott Backovich, and Germantown Municipal School District Superintendent Jason Manuel. Houston High School Principal Rob Taylor and Germantown Mayor Mike Palazzolo also made an appearance to welcome the student leaders and advisors.
Traci Spain expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support from the faculty and community. She specifically thanked HHS alumni Emma Nicell, Paige Foster, Brian Richards, Jillian Stewart, and Sam Haddow for volunteering their time and pouring into the students during the weekend. Their donations of door prizes, snacks, water, and time meant the world to SGA.
Houston HS SGA walked away with several awards, including six students who received the All-Star award and two students who received the Impact award. Keegan Pilant was awarded the Above and Beyond award, and Sydney Veatch was named Member of the Year. SGA also received second place for their project honoring the Jack Poole drive in honor of Martha Poole, first place in Collaboration for the Homecoming Dress drive, and first place in Improving Student Attitudes with Class Wars.
Lastly, SGA received the Four Star award and the Platinum award, the highest TASC council award.
Overall, it was a great weekend for Houston High School SGA and the Tennessee Association of Student Councils. Traci Spain and her team are extremely proud of the hard work and dedication put forth by everyone involved.