Double the Leadership: Saint Bede’s First-Ever Co-Presidents Make History

A.H. Hermes ‘26 and Emerald De La Torre ’26 are Saint Bede’s first-ever student government co-presidents.

For the first time in Saint Bede history, the senior class has two class presidents—and they’re proving that two heads really are better than one.

Last spring’s student government election ended in an unprecedented dead tie between A.J. Hermes ’26 and Emerald De La Torre ’26.

“When the results first came out, I was in confusion and began questioning the odds of it being an exact split,” A.J. recalled. “I was grateful to be elected but also surprised by the outcome.”

Emerald remembers the suspense vividly. “When our former president started with, ‘For the first time ever in Saint Bede history,’ I knew something big was coming,” she said. “Once it hit me that we’d be co-presidents, I felt nothing but excitement. It was history being made right in front of us.”

Student Government Sponsor Megan Theisinger ’09 had a front-row seat to the nail-biter.

“I was watching the responses roll in all day,” she said. “Neither of them was ever ahead by more than two or three votes. When the votes stopped climbing, it was a complete tie.”

What happened next became a civics lesson in real time.

“Our executive board met to decided what to do,” Megan explained. “Students suggested everything from repolling to extending the deadline, but they ultimately decided the tie should stand. They believed A.J. and Emerald both had the qualities they were seeking in their leaders, and I agreed wholeheartedly. It was a powerful reminder that every vote counts.”

Since then, the pair has embraced the challenge and opportunity that comes with shared leadership.

“Our co-president experience has been very productive,” A.J. said. “We’ve been able to work together as a team and easily settle our differences to guide the student government.”

Emerald agreed, crediting their complementary strengths.

“Where one of us falls short, the other steps up. We don’t compete, we collaborate and that’s why things have been running so smoothly. Spirit Day was a perfect example. We heard so many compliments about how seamlessly everything ran, and that success came directly from our teamwork,” she added.

The duo believes their success starts with open communication.

“The secret is strong communication - making sure everyone is on the same page and that everyone’s opinions are valued,” A.J. said.

Emerald added, “Having two presidents actually shows how powerful teamwork can be.”

Megan couldn’t be prouder.

“Their collaboration is impressive,” she said. “The school is in good hands with these leaders, and I’m excited to watch their leadership evolve here at Saint Bede and in whatever comes next.”

With their historic partnership off to such a strong start, A.J. and Emerald are eager to keep the momentum going.