Class of 2029 Eighth Grade Promotion: Servant Leadership

The following is an excerpt of a speech by Sabina Clinciu, one of several students chosen to speak at the Class of 2029 Eighth Grade Promotion. Read the other student speeches.

By Sabina Clinciu, member of the Class of 2029 and edited by the Eastside Catholic School Marketing and Communications team

Throughout my years at Eastside Catholic, I've built strong relationships, learned how to excel academically and served my community. Although all of these have had a role in shaping me, I want to focus on the role of Servant Leadership.

EC has taught us how to be compassionate, and I am so grateful for these experiences.

In middle school, I completed over 150 hours of community service. Whether tutoring students in math, enriching my understanding of Romanian culture or following my passions, all these experiences have shaped me into the person I am today—hopefully a better version of the student that started here at EC. In my time at EC, I've tutored over 10 students, which has been especially rewarding. Watching their confidence grow and their fear of math fade has shown me how service can truly transform lives.

Servant leadership has brought me closer to my roots. I’ve discovered multiple programs that teach young people about Romania—the birthplace of my parents. Teaching others about Romanian culture, I have been able to immerse myself in a diverse world I never previously envisioned and observe the curiosity of others as they learn more about my culture. I have been able to connect with various members of my community, creating memories that I will cherish and excite me for future trips to Romania.

I feel I am making a difference in my community, doing something that is truly fulfilling. I wouldn’t have done this without EC.

Through the Silver Kite Project, I have also been able to build relationships with some amazing people. I met Sue, an exciting lady with so many stories to tell. Bringing her story to life with my project partner was challenging but seeing Sue’s joy made every moment worth it.

Similarly, each year, my eyes have been opened to the experiences of others. I have been able to lend a hand with issues I never knew I could do anything about, even if my impact is small. As Acts 20:35 reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

I feel I am making a difference in my community, doing something that is truly fulfilling and which I wouldn’t have done without EC. From the very beginning, EC has taught us how to be compassionate, and I am so grateful for these experiences.

Truly, the best part of Servant Leadership is knowing that I am doing something to help make the world a better place. As Vincent Van Gogh once said, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” I hope that if there’s one thing you take from my reflection today, it’s that Servant Leadership can truly help shape each and every one of us into somebody better than we are today.

If you have questions about the Eighth Grade Promotion speeches, contact Middle School Principal Ashley Hylton.

Want to learn more about Eastside Catholic School's Touchstones, the core values that shape our community and inspire our students every day. Visit our website to learn how these principles come to life in academics, faith and service.