Mayor Bowser Inspires St. Patrick's Community

On Friday, November 8, the Day School hosted Mayor Muriel Bowser to talk to our Grades 3-8 students about leadership and civic engagement. 

After a warm Wolfhound welcome, Mayor Bowser was greeted by Head of School Jalene Spain Thomas and introduced by Caroline H. '29 and her father, Ferris Hussein, to whom we are grateful for making the Mayor’s visit possible. In her address, Mayor Bowser shared her personal journey into public service, emphasizing her dedication to advocating for her hometown of Washington, D.C., as both a city and a symbol of democracy. She discussed the election process and the unique position of D.C. in the electorate and explained how the local government serves the needs of residents across all eight wards of the city. Mayor Bowser’s insights provided students with an inspiring glimpse into the world of public service and the importance of active civic participation.

In a lively Q&A session, students (Pia N. '26, Annelise P. '27, Lily B. '28, and John Q. '29) had the opportunity to ask Mayor Bowser some insightful questions. They were curious about the personal side of leadership, posing questions such as, “What’s the best and worst thing about being Mayor?” and “If you weren’t the Mayor, what job would you want?” Mayor Bowser’s responses offered a heartfelt perspective on the challenges and rewards of her role, as well as her deep connection to the city. She delighted the crowd by sharing plans to bring D.C.’s NFL team, the Washington Commanders, back to the city after decades in Prince George’s County, MD. She also expressed pride in various accomplishments as Mayor, especially her focus on creating opportunities for D.C. youth and enhancing green spaces.

Highlighting the school’s commitment to service and sustainability, Colbie P. ’25 and Michael P. ‘29 shared a message of gratitude and pride with the Mayor. “We have been doing our part as well—composting, growing food in our garden, and learning about environmental inequities—and we’re proud to share that because of this work, we recently became the only independent school in D.C. to receive the 2024 Green Ribbon Award,” the students said. As a token of appreciation, they presented the Mayor with a framed photo of our vibrant garden, along with dried herbs grown by St. Patrick’s students, symbolizing the school’s connection to sustainability and community. 

In closing, members of the Student Leadership Council, Duke A. ’25, and Mateo D. ’25, thanked Mayor Bowser for her visit to the Day School, giving her a St. Patrick’s sweatshirt that we hope she will wear with pride around the city. 

Mayor Bowser’s visit was an enriching experience for students and faculty alike, deepening their understanding of democracy, leadership, and the impact that every individual can have on their community. 

View the livestream of Mayor Bowser’s visit here!