With the new school year beginning, the student body’s votes from before summer to decide the 2025-2026 StuGo representatives were counted and the selected officers are now in session. StuGo has already begun their hard work, from running spirit week to organizing senior activities.
It’s no secret that StuGo plays a huge role in the school, but most people don’t know what exactly goes on behind the scenes, or what each officer is responsible for.
Leeann Russ, treasurer of StuGo, has many jobs and projects she works hard on to ensure her appointed role is played to the best of her ability, and to benefit students and staff alike.
When asked what inspired her to run for treasurer, Russ says, “I remember being at the block party my sophomore year and seeing the treasurer calculating how much money we had made and everyone was around her waiting to see what she said. We were all watching her and I remember thinking how cool it is that she’s working with real money, and a lot of it at that. Math has always been my favorite subject and by being treasurer, I’m able to use my love for numbers!”
Russ used her passions to inspire and motivate herself to run for this position, and she continues to utilize this passion when doing her job.
She also expressed her hopes for herself and StuGo, stating, “I hope that with this role I am able to fundraise a kit and make sure we have enough money for all that we plan to do and more. Most years we end with little left over and I want to leave next year’s student government in a good position financially.”
Leeann also goes into more detail about how she plans to handle things this year, stating, “I am going to be very careful of what we buy this year and make sure what we do spend is a necessary purchase. I’m also hoping our events like homecoming and the block party have a good budget because I know the students really like those events.”
Students should all look forward to the upcoming events, especially knowing that they will be done to the best of StuGo’s ability, especially thanks to Leeann’s hard work and dedication.
Russ says, “I make sure the funds are being put to good use, as well as helping create fundraisers so that we can make more money. Additionally, I am in charge of filling out a couple pieces of paperwork when needed, like the cash box request and the fundraiser form.”
Of course, having this role doesn’t go without its challenges. Leeann elaborates on this, stating, “This year there may be a couple instances where people may want to spend money on something instead of going with the cheaper alternative. I plan on voicing my opinion and then if necessary taking it to a vote where the majority will win, to ensure most people are being heard.”
There’s a lot to be expected from a person with a job such as this one. At the end of the year, there’s sure to be plenty of accomplishments to be proud of, especially when handling such large responsibilities.
Russ adds, “I will feel proud if we have a lot of money left for the next treasurer. It’s hard starting the next school year with limited funds because right off the bat we have the homecoming dance, parade, and block party. I hope to leave them in good standing, just like the last treasurer did for me!
She hopes to have a number of beneficial effects on both StuGo, the student/staff body, and the school in general.
For example, Russ shares, “I hope to send people from our group to events held by the Arizona Association of Student Council (AASC). Every summer there’s a summer camp and nationwide conference; I’ve been to both and they are life changing. They help you have a new perspective and find who you are as a leader. I hope by the end of the year we can send some people to those since they happen yearly.”
Leeann has a vision for the future of the school and everyone who attends it, and is full of ideas if given the chance.
When asked what she would do for the school no matter the budget, she shares, “If I could plan any event for the school I would plan a music festival like Coachella and invite famous music artists to perform. It would be so cool if we could get people like Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, etc.”
Leeann Russ, StuGo treasurer 2025-2026, is prepared to help Verrado High School in any way possible, and with her skills, there’s no doubt she will accomplish big things.
