Halle Carroll ’23

Why are you engaged with the Goldfarb Center? 

I have always been interested in public affairs, and Goldfarb gives me the opportunity to pursue that interest at a deeper level and get hands-on experience in current events. Goldfarb events are also always very insightful and thought-provoking, and I love going and listening to what the speakers and audience have to say.

What does leadership mean to you as someone on the Goldfarb Student Executive Board?

I ran for the Executive Board in my first year at Colby in hopes to connect with people who had similar interests as me and have the opportunity to create programming about current events. Being part of this board has helped me develop leadership skills including organization, working with others, taking responsibility, and having confidence in my ideas.

What do you think is the most interesting thing happening right now in public affairs? Or, why do you think it is important for Colby students to care about public affairs?

Currently, I am very interested in social movements that have gained momentum this summer related to Black Lives Matter, police brutality, and police abolition. I think engaging in critical dialogue about these topics is very important for all people, especially for Colby students and our generation as a whole who have the potential to create tremendous change in our country. I hope we can take steps toward unity, justice, and anti-racism.

Is there a moment you will always remember or a favorite memory you have with the Goldfarb Center?

One of my favorite Goldfarb memories is from my first year at Colby, when I joined a group of students who went on a field trip with Professor Sandy Maisel to meet the Maine State Treasurer, who is a Colby alum! We had yummy sandwiches, explored the Maine State Museum, and got to have a private conversation with the treasurer. It was a very fun adventure!

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about for this year?

Goldfarb’s theme of racial justice this year aligns with my interests in public policy, so I am really looking forward to planning and attending various events relating to this subject. I am especially looking forward to engaging with my peers and having the tough but necessary conversations about racism in America.