Islay Shilland is a rising senior at Boston Latin School. She was born in Boston and has grown up in the South End.
Islay is an active member in her community, both in and out of school. At Boston Latin School, she is co-president of the Student Council, a body which strives to provide emotional and academic support for students, create productive discussions between administrators and students, and arrange events for all members of the school community that foster a sense of belonging.
Outside of school, Islay has involved herself in her community through volunteering and summer jobs. Two years ago, Islay volunteered as a tour guide at the Massachusetts State House, where she gave information on the building and the state’s rich history to tourists and locals—anyone who wished to learn it. Last summer, Islay worked as a Deitch Fellow with the Boston Planning & Development Agency. In this role she had the opportunity to participate in various aspects of urban planning. She was particularly interested in the community meetings; the passion with which people fought for the change they wanted to see in their neighborhoods inspired Islay.
Islay’s decision to apply for the John William Ward Public Service Fellowship was driven primarily by her strong interest in local government and public service, both which she believes to be essential to improving the quality of life for all members of a given community. This summer, Islay is working with the Office of Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. As a Ward Fellow she is excited to meet new people, get involved in government on a new level, and learn from her peers about their experiences in their respective placements.