Student-Led, Community-Driven: Clubs Shape Leadership in Upper School
May 4, 2026
In the Upper School, some of the most meaningful learning happens beyond the classroom—through the ideas students pursue and the communities they build. With an average of 60 clubs each year, The Episcopal School of Dallas offers a dynamic landscape where students explore interests, take initiative, and grow into leadership roles that shape the rhythm of campus life.
Clubs at ESD span a wide range of disciplines and experiences, from academic teams and publications to service organizations and affinity groups. Some are long-established pillars of student life, while others are created in response to emerging interests. Each one reflects a shared expectation: students are not just participants, but leaders—responsible for organizing meetings, guiding peers, and sustaining the energy behind their work.
For members of the Class of 2026, that leadership has taken on particular significance this year. Several seniors have stepped into key roles, helping to guide their peers while leaving a lasting impact on the organizations they serve.
Arden Bowen ‘26, serving as co-president of National Charity League, has focused on coordinating volunteer efforts and guiding her group in meaningful service. “It is meaningful because I am leading my group and planning volunteer activities,” Arden said.
Charlie Cain ‘26, a member of the Honor Council, reflects on the responsibility of representing and advocating for fellow students: “I am honored to stand up for my peers and represent the student body.”
As Student Council secretary, Chambers Jones ’26 has played a key role in carrying forward some of the Upper School’s most visible traditions. From Homecoming to 12 Days of Christmas and Student Body Week, she’s helped shape experiences that bring the community together. “Planning events … brings me so much joy to see the fun environment we create for our school,” she said.
Others have led within organizations centered on communication, collaboration, and shared purpose. Eva Krieser ‘26, as Parliamentarian for National Charity League, has overseen meetings and supported the structure that keeps her chapter running effectively: “I really enjoyed this position and getting to spend time with my chapter.” For Reese Rawson ‘26, leadership has centered on storytelling. As co-editor-in-chief of both The Eagle Edition newspaper and The Itinerary magazine, Rawson has helped elevate student voice across campus. “Writing is something I am very passionate about, and I love being able to showcase the voice of our school community,” she said. “Being part of the staff … has been the highlight of high school.”
Each role, individually, represents a meaningful commitment. Collectively, they point to something larger: a culture where students are trusted to lead, to contribute, and to shape the community they are part of. At ESD, clubs are more than extracurricular activities. They are spaces where students test ideas, collaborate with purpose, and contribute meaningfully to the life of the school. In these settings, leadership is not assigned. It is practiced daily, thoughtfully, and with lasting impact.
