Ambassador program grows as new director takes the lead

By Abigail Mason

The Ambassador Program at McNicholas is a part of student involvement and continues to grow in popularity, allowing the school’s community to evolve.

Mrs. Elizabeth Deardorff, Enrollment Manager at McNicholas, said she wants to focus on honoring students and show appreciation to those who help within the Ambassador program. Deardorff said, “It’s been wonderful, the staff has been very welcoming, and the students are amazing.” She said she hopes to make the program fun.

While Deardorff was hired in spring of 2025, this will be her first full year leading the Ambassador Program. Deardorff works alongside Mrs. Lauren Carigan, Director of Enrollment and Communications, as well as Mrs. Melissa Boston, the Enrollment Coordinator.

Ambassadors serve as guides to future students, which in turn, helps the school and community grow. “Ambassadors highlight some of the best features of the school,” Deardorff said. Some events ambassadors participate in throughout the year are: Meet the Teacher Night, Future Rocket Nights, Open House, and hosting a shadow. To be a part of the program, students fill out an application through email and are required to attend training during the school year.

“It really helps with growing leadership skills and skills you will use in your everyday life,” junior Tessa Calcitrai said. Students practice communication skills with a variety of people, like participating in speeches, presentations within different public settings, and representing the school with a positive attitude during social events.

Ambassadors host students coming to McNicholas through shadow days. Sophomore Athena Andreadis said, “I like showing McNicholas and why it’s such a great place [to shadow students].”

Deardorff said, “The Ambassador Program highlights the talents, students, and good vibes of the student body, and the terrific community we have to offer.”

Many students have joined the ambassador program because of their friends, or because their shadow inspired them to become more involved with the school and community. “I saw the email and thought that it sounded like something fun. I love meeting new people and thought it’d be really fun if I could make a meaningful impact on somebody,” Calcitrai said about joining the program.