He’s more than just a voice on the announcements. He can’t wait to beat the Mr. Harriton fundraising records, he believes in the power of uniting clubs, and he wants to leave his mark on our school. Willie Marks is your Student Council president for the 2015-16 school year, and he has plans. Read on for an insider look at the priorities of one of Harriton’s student leaders.

The Harriton Banner: How did you decide to run for office?

Willie Marks: I ran first as a 10th grader, won the position of treasurer, and [then I] really became involved with Student Council. I loved being treasurer and was able to raise a lot of money for Mr. Harriton. I wanted to continue to be a part of it, and so I ran again last year for president and succeeded.

HB: How are you taking on this role/making time for it?

WM: Not sleeping! Between IB and being a varsity soccer captain and a senior applying to college, it’s all very difficult. I think I’ve learned to be more efficient and to manage my time better by being more productive and trying not to procrastinate as much.

HB: What are the plans for this year?

WM: As they’ve been in the past, we want to beat the Mr. Harriton record and raise even more money this year. The goal is $18,000 to give to multiple local charities. Quidditch is also a pretty big deal! I think it was a great success this year as well. We also want clubs to interact more and get more recognition, which we hope to do through the website. We want to work together and hear the ideas of other students even if they aren’t in Student Council. We talk to Mr. Eveslage too, and as more things come up we will deal with them.

HB: How are you planning to leave your “mark” at Harriton?

WB: That’s funny, Mr. Eveslage asked me the same question! I’d love for clubs to be more integrated at the end of the year; I hope that we can have a leadership conference to encourage clubs to work together. More group events and events that produce money would be good. I’d like to utilize the Cookie Grant [more] because clubs are underfunded and the grant gives clubs money to help them move forward.

HB: What do you hope will continue on after you leave Harriton?

WM: Continuing the membership of clubs. Coby [Levit, Student Council vice-president and humor editor at the Banner] also had a great idea to have grade wars to encourage more school spirit.

HB: Last thoughts?

WM: If any students have any ideas for Student Council, feel free to contact me through my student email as William Marks. We are always looking for more input. Also, I’m looking forward to a great year!