Black Student Leadership Council

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A new chapter of The Black Student Leadership Council (BSLC) was proudly introduced, which is a group dedicated to empowering Black students and creating a space for meaningful conversations and cultural celebration. 

Mrs. Ty Nared, the chapter’s faculty moderator and the school’s Director of Belonging, has helped bring the council to Marian. “Several students approached me last year about a community organization they had heard of called BSLC and asked if Marian could have a chapter,” Nared said. After contacting Mr. John Jackson, the national group’s founder, and hosting an informational session with students, Marian officially launched its BSLC chapter. Other schools in the metro including Omaha North, Burke, Westview, Buena Vista, Central, Westside and Benson also have a BSLC chapter. 

The mission of BSLC is “to cultivate character and develop leadership by providing internships and experiences where youth can create, organize and host culturally relevant projects and events,” Nared said. In just a short time, BSLC has already begun building a community for its members while planning impactful events. One of its biggest events this year was the Black History Month Showcase at the Rose Theater on Feb. 5.

Sophomore Saniya Harris-Alcorn, Vice President of Marian’s BSLC chapter, sought a leadership position within the council because she “wanted to be more involved with the Black community at Marian.” In her role, she helps manage the chapter by sending members updates, reminders and information about upcoming events. 

While BSLC is a space for Black students, “students of all backgrounds can get involved by attending and supporting the events organized by BSLC,” Nared said. By showing up and standing together, Marian students can create a more inclusive school environment.

BSLC’s impact goes beyond Marian, too. The group collaborates with Black-owned businesses, community organizations and local leaders to support its members and bring attention to important issues. In the new year, Marian’s chapter will continue to create awareness and change within Marian and the broader Omaha community. 

Model Congress Club

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The new Model Congress Club offers students a unique opportunity to experience the challenges and responsibilities of government. Moderated by English teacher Ms. Susie Sisson and social studies teacher Mrs. Jillian Roger. Led by seniors Caroline McDonald and Abby McGuire, the club prepares its members for Harvard Model Congress which will be Feb. 19-23. 

Model Congress at Marian began with Mr. Tom Baker, who was the first teacher to take students to Harvard Model Congress (HMC) in 1986. In 1999, Sisson took over and led students to HMC annually until 2007. After a long hiatus, Marian resumed participation in 2018. This year marks the first time Model Congress has been an official club, helping students be more prepared for the conference.

“Writing bills, debating legislation and passing laws is demanding work. This club gives students a glimpse into how the legislative branch operates and what it takes to serve the public,” Sisson said.

At scheduled meetings, members practice public speaking, research policy issues and learn parliamentary procedures. “It’s a simulation of the U.S. government, from Congress to the FBI. It’s also a great way to meet people who share your interests,” McDonald said.

In the future, McDonald said she hopes the club will compete locally as well. “We’d love to see local tournaments in Nebraska, similar to speech and debate,” she said. “More opportunities would let students sharpen their skills and get even more engaged.”

For McDonald, Model Congress has been transformative. Initially planning a STEM career, her experience at Princeton Model Congress last year sparked a passion for political science and public service. “It opened my eyes to the world of government and leadership,” she said.

The club is open to students in grades 10-12 and Sisson encourages anyone interested in politics, current events or leadership to join. “It requires hard work, but the skills and experiences are invaluable,” Sisson said.