Seth Harris said he never considered running for any positions in student government as part of Natick High School’s Class of 2021. That’s what makes his recent election as president of the Class of 2025 at Westfield State University such a surprise, especially to Harris.
“When I came to Westfield State, I was able to meet some great people, step out of my comfort zone, and make the run for class president and win,” he says.
Getting to Westfield State in the first place also surprised the lifelong Natick resident, a proud alum of Brown Elementary School and Kennedy Middle School in addition to NHS.
Harris took part in Natick High’s Alternative Education Program for students with learning challenges who need extra support. Given that “my GPA was not the highest,” Harris says he expected to attend a 2-year community college and head into the workforce. But Harris worked hard to get his grades up over his last two years in high school, and took a shot at applying to Westfield State, where he now has made the dean’s list and is pursuing a degree in social work.
Harris says he spent most of his time in high school focusing on his classes, and trying to become more efficient. Outside activities included volunteering for Natick Service Council during the holidays, but student government wasn’t on his radar.
“What inspired me to run for class president [in college] was to represent the unrepresented,” he said. “I feel as if many kids in college nowadays—especially because of COVID—feel enclosed and alone, and my main goal is to bring my class together as one and do everything in my power to make sure we have an amazing 3 more years at Westfield State together.”
Harris credits many people he met along the way in running for office for helping to make his campaign a success. “The students that make up the class of 2025 here at Westfield state are truly special people, and I cannot wait to start working with them next semester.”
Before getting to Westfield State, Harris received plenty of help through Natick High’s NorthStar program. He credits teachers and other staff for their support.
Mark Mortarelli, the Alternative Education Coordinator at Natick High, says Harris “was a terrific member of our community and I am not surprised at all that he is doing so well! Seth worked very hard and we are all very proud of him.”
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