Gov. Wes Moore has appointed Lorena Wu, a sophomore at Poolesville High School, as the Student Member of the Maryland State Board of Education for the 2026-2027 school year.
The appointment was announced following a statewide selection process and formally confirmed by the Governor’s Appointments Office. Wu will represent students across Maryland, serving as a voting member-in-training before becoming a full voting member later in her term, as outlined by state law.
In a statement shared on her State SMOB social media account, Wu expressed gratitude to students across Maryland for their support throughout the campaign process and reflected on the long path that led to the appointment. She described the journey as challenging at times, but deeply meaningful, crediting the experience with introducing her to mentors, peers, and advocates from across the state.
Wu also acknowledged fellow student leader David Arowolo, noting his dedication to student advocacy and saying she looks forward to working alongside him and other youth leaders in the coming year.
She emphasized the importance of her support system, thanking friends, teachers, mentors, and family members, and shared that the idea of serving in this role began years ago when she first learned about the position as a seventh grader. Wu said that moment of early exposure helped spark a commitment to leadership and public service that ultimately led to her appointment.
Montgomery County Public Schools confirmed that Wu will be sworn in after July 1 by the Clerk of the Court in Montgomery County. Wu said she is eager to begin the work ahead and to collaborate with fellow board members and student leaders to help shape the future of public education in Maryland.
