On Friday, our school hosted its annual Installation Mass. This annual mass is intended to install all student leaders, ranging from student council members to club and honor society presidents. It usually starts the way a regular mass would, and ends with the visiting priest blessing the pins that student leaders will receive when they are installed.
“I think the pins themselves are very symbolic,” said junior council member Gaby Blanch, “because they kind of serve as a reminder of our position and the accomplishment.”
When mass is over and the priest has left, the installation ceremony then begins with the installation of student council for all the grades, starting with the freshmen. After that, comes club and honor society presidents, and finally Bobcat Ambassadors.
Executive Board president Justina Montaldo kicked off the ceremony by giving a speech addressing the entire student body. In it, she expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for her time at OLLA, and an exciting upcoming school year. She hopes to lead us in fun activities and bonding experiences throughout the year, while also making her last year the best one yet. Montaldo led the student body in reciting a pledge to affirm our commitment to the school and our student leaders.
Dean of enrollment and engagement, Ms. Olga Martinez, presented each student leader with their pin and facilitated the installment ceremony in calling up their names to be inducted.
“Installation mass is always something to look forward to,” said student leader Isabella Meireles, “and it’s good for us to recognize those people who make a difference in our school.”
This year’s mass featured some additions in the form of not only new club presidents, but also new clubs. These include Sisters of Support, Culinary club, and Live Like Bella club. Their leaders are very excited to begin this new year and new chapter with enthusiasm to share their clubs with the student body.
“Our mission is to uplift and empower each other through every chapter of life,” said Sisters of Support co-president Isabel Lopez. “We hope to offer unwavering encouragement and strength in both good times and moments of sadness.”
Also honored at the end of the ceremony were those recognized for the National Hispanic, First Generation and/or the National African American Scholar Recognition Program by the College Board.
But the most exciting part, as students have expressed, is the feeling of a new school year with new opportunities, activities, and potential. The goal of every student leader is to make an indelible mark on our school and create a memorable experience for each and every one of us. And there’s no doubt that this year’s leaders will be no different.
