Political Discussion Club

Did you know that Upper Schoolers can join a wide variety of clubs and organizations … or start their own?

Every Friday during lunch, a group of freshmen gather on campus to talk politics. As members of the student-run Political Discussion Club, they chat about various political races to look out for in the primaries, discuss major topics in Congress, and hold prediction contests for the winners of primary elections taking place across the country. The club was founded in 2023 by Pearce Campbell ’27 and Owen Engel ’27; Upper School Social Studies Teacher Jalyn Wheatley serves as the club’s sponsor. 

“Pearce and I realized that there was no club relating to politics or government at Steward, fields we are both deeply passionate about,” said Owen. “We decided to create a club to start informed, mature discourse about politics and current affairs.” 

Pearce, who experienced the political process firsthand in 2023 while interning for former Virginia State Senator Siobhan Dunnavant, said, “I thought it would be good to start a club that focused on educating students about our government and how it works.” 

On April 12, Sen. Dunnavant visited Steward to meet with club members and any other Upper School students interested in learning more about the political process. She spoke about her experience as a doctor and a senator. Students asked questions, including, "What was your top legislative achievement?" and "Would you ever consider running again?"

Pearce noted, “I especially liked her speech about civil discourse and how we need to listen to others with opposing views. She also told us that one of the beliefs her mother taught her was to see others as good people with good intentions, which has helped Sen. Dunnavant engage in civil debate with those who disagree with her.”

On May 3, Jody Rogish, who serves on the Henrico Board of Supervisors, visited campus and spoke about his career and the processes involved in county government.

“I liked how he told us that neither he nor his opponent used negative advertising against each other,” shared Pearce. Club members asked questions of Supervisor Rogish, including, “Would you consider running for a higher office?” 

Pearce said, “These [Political Discussion Club] events not only enriched students' understanding of government politics but also helped us see that you do not need to lie about the other side to score political points.”

The Political Discussion Club is one example of the active role that Steward students play in shaping the future. Ms. Wheatley is energized by the club members’ enthusiasm and commitment.

“I hope these hardworking students continue to cultivate political discussions,” she said.