From organizing elaborate pep rallies and overseeing Emerson’s memorable events to guiding students as they mentor elementary schoolers, Erin Livingston, Leadership Coordinator and Peer Assistance & Leadership (PALS) teacher, is working around the clock to cultivate culture and build a community within the school. By establishing new traditions, promoting school spirit and encouraging people to get involved, Livingston is inspiring students to be the best versions of themselves.

Although Livingston is in charge of both Maverick Leadership and PALS, she wasn’t always set on teaching. In high school, she was considering a career in business. However, that changed soon after she graduated and attended Pennsylvania State University. In college, she was extremely fond of one of her professors who moved her to work with students and be a positive force in their lives.

“In college, my English teacher was super supportive, wanted to form relationships with her students, and taught us about her life,” Livingston said. “By sophomore year, I believed working with teenagers and teaching them as they mature into adults would be more fun.” 

The classes she teaches, such as Maverick Leadership, are a direct reflection of this. Her role is to guide students as they unleash their creativity to create different events that help support the student body and their numerous activities. Whether it be by planning a pep rally, dance or fundraiser, student leaders are using their ideas to make students’ time here at Emerson unforgettable. All of which couldn’t be accomplished without Livingston’s drive to empower others to be the change they want to see.

“I loved being able to help students who want to lead and develop a positive culture and climate at their school,” Livingston said. “My favorite part about teaching this class is watching all the creativity come to life and see my students take charge.”

Her impact on students in PALS is quite similar to those in leadership. PALS is a class where students are given the opportunity to support elementary schoolers and serve as a role model for them. Livingston has always been an advocate for pursuing passions and finding purpose. Her dedication to improving this program through various activities has affected her students tremendously, as they’re serious about being a motivational presence in the lives of the younger generation.

“I want to grow this program to be bigger than it already is,” Livingston said. “These students are inspired to be more caring, supportive individuals by the kids they mentor.”

Through the many things Livingston does for Emerson, her heart for helping students reach their full potential is what shines above the rest. One of her favorite things about teaching is being able to affect the whole school and reach different people in the classes she teaches. She strives to recognize others in what they’re doing for their community and encourage them to continue in that.

“I want to inspire and help people to reach their full potential in terms of leadership,” Livingston said.