Harper swears in new student trustee

For years, Clara Moravec has shined in her role as a middle hitter on the volleyball court — first at Jacobs High School in Algonquin and now at Harper College. This summer, she’s preparing to ace a new position: Harper student trustee.

Moravec, a second-year student focused on psychology and a career in medicine, was sworn in as the newest student representative to the college’s board of trustees at the board’s July meeting. She previously served on Harper’s Student Senate, completing one semester as the organization’s vice president.

That experience “helped give me more confidence and better people skills,” said Moravec, who hopes to transfer to San Diego State University after completing her Harper studies. “And being in these roles keeps me informed about the current policies at Harper.”

She plans to focus on tuition, among other things, during her time with the board.

Moravec was inspired to take on the trustee seat after observing her predecessor Justin McDermott, who started a new stint on the Illinois Board of Higher Education on July 1.

“I wanted to be in that same position,” Moravec said, noting she loves Harper for its people, its overall atmosphere and the volleyball team, which finished ninth in the nation last year and is ranked in the Top 15 for the upcoming season.

During his introduction of his successor at the board meeting, McDermott called Moravec “dedicated, strong, fearless and motivated.” The board also honored McDermott at the meeting, presenting him with a formal resolution and thanking him for his advocacy and work. Harper’s student trustee is elected annually by the students. The term is a one-year position.

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