Vanessa Li Makes History as Student Representative on St. Mary’s BOE
In a groundbreaking turn of events, Vanessa Li, a dedicated 11th-grade student at Leonardtown High School, has secured a pivotal role as the Student Member of the St. Mary’s County Public Schools Board of Education. Her election, announced by the St. Mary’s Association of Student Councils, marks a significant milestone in her academic journey, positioning her to assume the responsibilities of the current student member, Hannah Heisler, also hailing from Leonardtown High, starting July 1, 2025. Li’s triumph underscores her exceptional leadership skills and unwavering commitment to advocating for student interests within the educational sphere.
Li’s Leadership Journey and Vision
Li’s ascent to this prestigious position is a testament to her remarkable track record in student governance. At Leonardtown High School, she currently holds the esteemed position of president of the Principal’s Student Leadership Advisory Council. In this capacity, she oversees a cohort of over 40 student leaders, spearheading various civic and school-related initiatives. Additionally, Li serves as the vice president of both the St. Mary’s Association of Student Councils and the Leonardtown High School Student Government Association, showcasing her multifaceted leadership prowess and dedication to fostering a collaborative and inclusive school environment. Beyond the confines of her school, Li serves as the Division 5 Liaison for the Maryland Association of Student Councils, where she collaborates with student leaders from neighboring counties, leading meetings, attending assemblies, and facilitating a student leadership conference.
Li’s primary objectives as a board member center on empowering fellow students and raising awareness about educational opportunities. Her overarching goal is to ensure that students feel fully supported in pursuing their academic and personal passions. Moreover, she aims to enhance her understanding of the school district’s budgetary processes and establish robust communication channels between the Board of Education and the student body. Through her role, Li seeks to provide a valuable student perspective on district policies and actively engage in school-related endeavors.
Academic Excellence and Artistic Prowess
Beyond her remarkable leadership acumen, Li is a gifted soprano with eight years of training in classical and musical theater voice. Her exceptional talent has garnered her accolades, including a top 35 finish in the 2024 CS Vocal Competition semifinals and a second-place win in the Musical Theater High School Sophomore Treble Voice category at the 2024 Mid-Atlantic Regionals NATS Student Auditions. Li’s musical journey extends to her involvement with the school’s chamber choir, Potomac Voices, where she has had the privilege of performing for esteemed dignitaries and at notable events. Furthermore, Li actively participates in school and community theater productions, embodying diverse roles that showcase her versatility and passion for the performing arts.
St. Mary’s County Public Schools, a distinguished educational institution serving a vast student body across 27 schools, has a longstanding tradition of integrating a student member into its Board of Education to ensure that youth voices play a pivotal role in shaping district-wide decisions. Li joins a lineage of student representatives entrusted with bridging the gap between school administrators and the student populace, embodying a commitment to fostering collaboration and inclusivity within the educational landscape.
As a resident of California, Maryland, Li is a proud member of esteemed organizations such as the National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, and various mentoring programs at Leonardtown High. Balancing her academic pursuits, artistic endeavors, and leadership responsibilities, Li also dedicates her time to volunteering at nursing homes and elementary schools, where she shares her musical talents with vulnerable populations. Her election underscores a growing emphasis on student engagement in educational governance, reflecting a broader trend observed across Maryland, where youth leadership is actively cultivated and celebrated.
Li’s term commences at a critical juncture for St. Mary’s County Public Schools, as the institution navigates budget planning and policy updates for the upcoming academic year. Her commitment to collaboration and opportunity sets the stage for a transformative tenure, wherein student voices will be amplified and celebrated, driving meaningful change within the educational landscape.
