Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Majors: Environmental Studies and Political Science
Minor: SpanishMadeline White attended Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School in Ambler, PA where she heavily involved herself in her school and local community, while also pursuing her interest in environmental policy and staying committed to her academics. Upon graduation, Madeline earned the distinction of Highest General Average, and also gained recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction and a National Merit Finalist. While Madeline participated in many student organizations throughout her time in high school, her favorite commitments included founding and leading her school’s Reading Olympics team, planning free “STEM Saturday” events as a Technology Intern, playing three instruments and singing in five different musical ensembles, and serving as an elected Student Council representative for four years, taking on the role of Student Body Vice President in her senior year.
Madeline’s primary involvement at her high school, Speech and Debate, centered around her passion for political science and helped her discover her specific interest in environmental policy. Competing in both Impromptu Speaking and Extemporaneous Speaking over her four years, Madeline earned many state and national titles; notably, she was the 2024 National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) Champion in Impromptu Speaking, as well as a 4-time State Finalist, 2-time State Champion, 3-time National Semifinalist, and 5-time District Champion. Madeline also took on leadership roles within Speech and Debate, serving both as her team’s captain and as a member of the NSDA Student Leadership Council in her senior year. She also served as the Head of Social Media for The Extemper’s Bible, a student-run national nonprofit working to expand access to Speech and Debate, specifically focusing on Extemporaneous Speaking.
Madeline also serves as a Flagship Program Leader for DemocraShe, a national nonprofit focused on empowering teenage girls to gain civics knowledge, build self-confidence, and prepare to run for office in the future. As a member of the Leadership Team, she co-leads weekly cohort meetings focusing on advocacy and resiliency, while also mentoring a few girls at a time as a “Big Sister.” Similarly, Madeline was also involved with girl governance within Girl Scouts, holding office as a Girl Delegate for the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania for two terms. Madeline was also selected as the sole student representative to hold a seat on her county’s inaugural Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council.
Amidst all of her high school commitments, Madeline always made time to play volleyball, rock climb, or sing karaoke with her friends–all hobbies which she will continue at Santa Clara. She loves spending time outdoors, and spent each of her summers accordingly working at a Girl Scout sleepaway summer camp in the Pocono Mountains. Madeline is grateful to be a part of the Johnson Scholar community and is excited to continue pursuing her passion for environmental policy while at Santa Clara.