Published September 5, 2025
BY OLIVIA FORT
This July, seven Carmel High School leadership students attended the California Association of Directors of Activities Leadership Camp at University of California, Santa Barbara, joining hundreds of students from in and out of state for a week of workshops, collaboration and spirited competition.
The camp, offered annually by CADA, is designed to offer opportunities for students to learn how to strengthen student leadership and foster inclusivity. Attendees heard from keynote speakers, participated in team-building activities and exchanged ideas with students from other schools.
“I was put into the executive group at CADA, which really helped me develop my role as Associated Student Body president and gave me ideas on how to improve the school bit by bit,” explains senior Drew Galy.
Among CHS attendees were campus and community outreach commissioner Maia Messiah, Class of 2028 treasurer Andrea Olvera, documentarian Amy Aguilar and spirit and rally commissioners Abby Frey, Bella Boaro and Kai Bode.
CHS leadership students return from CADA inspired and ready to bring fresh ideas to campus. Photo by AMY AGUILAR
“Leadership contains everything,” says Galy, “Whether you’re a strategist, a logistical person or anything in between, you can find your role on the team.”
CHS leadership teacher Aubrey Powers, who has attended CADA with students for a number of years, emphasized the value of the experience for both personal growth and peer connection. During the camp, Powers also attended her own activities director workshop.
“It’s a great experience for our students to connect with others who are familiar with some challenges that they have,” Powers explains. “There’s a lot of borrowing and collaborating.”
Throughout the week, students participated in small group discussions focused on communication, event planning, inclusivity and campus climate. They also engaged in hands-on activities designed to build trust and creativity, all of which culminated in a camp-wide talent show, where the CHS team earned the title “Most Spirited.”
“One of my favorite moments at CADA was when we participated in the talent show,” Messiah says. “It was nerve-wracking to perform in front of so many people, but the crowd was super hyped up.”
Going forward, the group looks to implement what they learned into their roles in leadership. One idea Galy has brought back to CHS was a food and movie bonding night for the senior class that took place Aug. 18.
“We really want to make sure when we plan projects or events, it’s not just one person’s vision, but a team effort,” Messiah explains. “As campus and community outreach commissioner, that connects to my role, whether it’s coordinating with the wellness center or public service.”
As the school year began, the CHS leadership team was already putting lessons from UCSB into action by bringing new ideas, stronger bonds and a shared commitment to making CHS a place where every student feels they belong.
“I really learned I shouldn’t be afraid to be myself and should take action when opportunities arise,” Aguilar says. “At camp, I realized that you can either watch things or take action, and in leadership it’s all about taking action.”
