For its exemplary record of leadership, service and activities that improve the school and community, the South Fayette High School Student Government has been recognized as a 2024 National Gold Council of Excellence by the National Association of Student Councils (NASC). The NASC program is supported by its parent organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). South Fayette has earned this award consecutively since 2019. 

The Student Government at South Fayette is active with countless activities that encourage student involvement. When applying for this recognition, student leaders were particularly focused on activities that engage participation from all grades across the district and extended into the community such as the annual Homecoming Carnival and Glow Run. They also cited their outstanding relationships with the regional, state, and national council organizations, specifically noting that this year 1) the state named five South Fayette council members as Distinguished Student Leaders, 2) a South Fayette student and the student government’s advisor serve on the Pennsylvania Association of Student Councils (PASC) executive board, and 3) South Fayette hosted the PASC Region B conference. Winning the Gold award is also representative of the SF student government’s commitment to operation by parliamentary procedure and their dedication to voter registration which has also been recognized by their receipt of the Governor’s Civic Engagement Silver Award.  

“Receiving a National Gold Council of Excellence Award reflects the amazing dedication of the students and school to make their community a better place,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “South Fayette has gone above and beyond in elevating student voice to ensure they are establishing a positive climate and culture, as well as fostering academic and social growth for all.”

“It’s an honor to receive this award,” said South Fayette senior Paige Westbrook, student government president. “With such great leaders who came before me, I was able to submit the application with full confidence in what our government does and know how lucky we are to have a flourishing organization.” 

“It’s been a wonderful opportunity to work alongside amazing student leaders in our organization," added Alycia Stier, student government vice president and also a senior at South Fayette. "We are able to thrive and showcase our excellence due to the determination and compassion in which our leaders exhibit. It’s been an honor to serve as VP in our council and I cannot wait to see our council continue to excel in the future as well.”

“Our Student Government is honored to be recognized with this award for the sixth year in a row,” said advisor Dr. Felix Yerace. “The first time we received it, in 2019, was when we hosted the NASC National Student Council Conference at South Fayette. This award is a testament to all of the hard work our students perform on behalf of others. We are proud that we provide an opportunity for any student at South Fayette to give back to others while developing as leaders." 

A student council must meet a variety of criteria to earn the National Gold Council of Excellence Award. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings and a democratic election process, the councils must have demonstrated successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community. Learn more about the National Council of Excellence Awards.