Holland Patent Central School District Welcomes New Student Board Member

Holland Patent Central School District welcomes its newest student board member, senior Grace Hanna. Hanna will participate in Board of Education meetings, share student perspectives and help strengthen communication between the board and the student body.

Hanna brings a strong record of involvement and leadership to the role. She is active in numerous clubs and takes pride in getting to know students from different backgrounds, valuing the variety of experiences they bring to school each day.

Hanna’s strengths include communication and collaboration, shaped through her work on the student council and her service as president of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Hanna has held multiple leadership roles, including positions in multiple other clubs, and she started a local International Advocacy Group. Hanna recently completed an internship in Washington, D.C., further expanding her understanding of government and policy.  

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Richard praised the student’s commitment to leadership and service. “Student voice is important to the work we do,” Richard said. “We are proud to welcome a student leader who brings insight and enthusiasm to our district.” 

“This opportunity will help me learn how decisions are made and allow a student’s perspective to be taken into account,” Hanna said. “I want to do a good job representing Holland Patent and look forward to a memorable year.” 

Superintendent and board members praised Hanna’s dedication, noting that the student voice plays a vital role in shaping a positive school environment. Hanna will serve as a liaison throughout the year, offering insight on student interests.

The district congratulates Hanna and looks forward to the meaningful contributions she will bring to Holland Patent. 

Q&A with Grace Hanna

Q: As a new Student Board member, what are you most looking forward to learning or contributing to the board?

A: “Before decisions are made, learning the actual process and having my own perspective taken into account. I want to do a good job representing Holland Patent.” 

Q: How do you plan to represent the student voice and bring feedback from your peers to the board?

A: “I am close to many different types of people, taking time to get to know my peers, and I am in a lot of clubs where I am grateful to make meaningful connections with individuals at Holland Patent.” 

Q: What strengths or qualities do you bring to this position that will help you contribute effectively?

A: “Communication skills, learning to advocate for other people and speaking up when something is wrong, and bringing an unique perspective by representing the different facets of the school.” 

Q: What extracurricular activities, clubs, or leadership roles help shape your perspective as you begin serving on the board? 

A: “As a student council member, president of FBLA, and someone who has held positions such as treasurer of FBLA, I also serve as a leader for an international advocacy group. We worked on a project that focuses on expanding access to education to Nigeria. These experiences help me understand the different needs of students.”

Q: What or who inspires you as you take on this new responsibility representing your peers?

A: “My teachers encouraged me to take on this role, and I’m grateful to have a strong support system that continues to encourage me.” 

Q: What college or post-graduation plans are you considering, and how do you see this experience supporting those goals?

A: “I would like to get a degree in environmental science or biology because I’m really interested in how policies affect climate change.” 

Q: What career interests or long-term goals do you have, and how might serving as a Student Board Member help you grow toward them? 

A: “Serving on the board will give a strong background in understanding procedure, and negotiating with people will help build that foundation.” 

Q: Is there anything else you would like to include?

A: “I am looking forward to a memorable and fun year.”