Jordan Izenwasser: A Proud Cowboy

BY MELANIE SMITH AND LINDSEY HANNAH

A small girl, barely two years of age, clings to her parent’s leg, frightened of the surrounding strangers. Considering the context, that they were in the Sexual Assault Treatment Center, such a response is understandable. Jordan Izenwasser, however, leads his fellow CCHS Student Government Association members as they diligently place each wrapped package into a serval rooms. Vivid hues serve as a dramatic juxtaposition against the lifeless, white walls.  As the timid child cautiously perches herself on “Santa’s” lap, she asks for a pink bicycle.  Izenwasser then leads her to her own private room, where among the playful little boxes, gleams a pink bicycle. Instantly, the girl becomes ecstatic, tears of elation dripping down her face, as Izenwasser wipes away his own tears.  

As president of the Student Government Association at Cooper City High School, the duty to organize community projects falls to Izenwasser. Additionally, he strives to create the infamous “cowboy pride,” famous across the school campus.  With the 2016 election approaching, dishonest and two-faced politicians become far too common, making someone as whole-hearted, compassionate, and noble as Izenwasser a breath of fresh air.

A natural born leader, Izenwasser could be found heading up group projects within the classroom with the intention of earning a top grade. His dedication to CCHS emanates in his every action.

Izenwasser’s leadership could also be seen on the baseball field. Though he enjoyed the sport, he was willing to sacrifice it to better serve as a member and, eventually, president of SGA.

One of the first orders of business for the freshmen class each year is to elect their class officers.  Hallways become soapboxes as vivid posters cover each wall, declaring promises to make the school a better place.  Surprisingly, Jordan’s face was missing from the patriotic parade, as he did not run for any office. He was, however, fortunate enough to have the former SGA sponsor Mrs. Perez as a teacher.  Naturally, he volunteered to assist Perez in distributing “I Voted” stickers.

“I kind of got into it because, I mean, obviously it’s a pretty minimal job, so I might as well make it fun,” Izenwasser said. “I talked to [voters], and smiled when I gave them a sticker.”

Afterwards, a SGA member suggested he attend a meeting; he instantly fell in love with everything the organization stood for, and eagerly became a member.  Izenwasser had never been someone to take the backseat, and soon joined the SGA Executive Board. Whereas SGA officer positions are elected by the student body, the Executive Board must go through extensive interviews. Selection is crucial to the function of SGA, as the Executive Board serves to advise the SGA and class officers. Izenwasser went on to run for recording secretary, but continued to strive to make an impact in Cooper City High School and the surrounding community.

“After talking to my friends and my family and really doing some soul searching I decided to go for president,” Izenwasser said. “I really had to dig deep and think about where my values were.”

Now, no one just wakes up and decides to run for president without an actual plan, unless you happen to be Kanye West or Donald Trump. Izenwasser went to the old-fashioned, but true, grassroot campaign. Individually talking to students, he greeted each with a smile and greeting, and briefly explained his platform. He approached a wide range of students, determined to appeal to the individual. While posters certainly raise awareness of possible candidates, it was treating each individual student with integrity, kindness, and respect that earns votes.

“I think what really made the difference was really going up to people that you normally wouldn’t associate yourself with and introducing yourself, letting them know that you’re here for them, you’re their friend,” Izenwasser said.

As Jordan would begin his term, so would new SGA sponsor, Natalie Flaten. Ms. Perez was unable to continue to dedicate time to the club, and after requests from numerous students and administration, Flaten took the position. Whenever there is a change in the advisor within any organization, there is often a rocky period as the students and faculty member learn to adjust to one another. Izenwasser helped to facilitate a smooth transition by constantly working in cooperation with Flaten, serving as an example for other members.

“Jordan and I are constantly in contact brainstorming new ideas as well as ensuring that we have everything set that needs to be for upcoming events,” Flaten said.

Throughout his time working with SGA, Izenwasser has participated in countless events and fundraisers within and beyond the community, whether it’s planning the Sexual Assault Treatment Center Holiday Party, helping to send WWII veterans to memorials in Washington D.C., or participating in Relay for Life. One does not have to venture very far to find Izenwasser helping someone, somewhere, somehow.

“One of my biggest foundations is helping people,” Izenwasser said. “I love helping people because I always think about stuff we take for granted many many people don’t have, whether it’s education or the clothes on our back, or anything.”

As SGA president Izenwasser, also takes on broader range of responsibilities. This not only includes maintaining previously set standards and traditions, but facilitating new and inventive activities for the SGA to partake in. One of the biggest events happening for the first times this year is the color run set to take place this December. The proceeds from the event are to go towards primarily Relay for Life and Feeding Children Everywhere. Advertising to all the surrounding areas, including Cooper City, Hollywood, Davie, and Weston, SGA expects to draw around 10,000 people, raising $20,000.

Another goal on Izenwasser’s agenda for this school year is to raise school spirit. In addition to facilitating multiple spirit weeks, the SGA has also called upon the student body as a whole to raise the spirits of their fellow classmates. The fruits of his efforts are obvious at the spike in attendance at CCHS football games. With themes such as a “black out” or a “white out” game, students are finally coming out to support their athletes. While any upperclassmen would note that the change has been dramatic, Izenwasser concedes that there is still room for improvement.

“We, [the student body], have to encourage each other to take pride in our school, and in everything we do,” Izenwasser said. “If we enjoy coming to school and cherish Cooper City High School, then school spirit will fix itself.”

Izenwasser, along with the rest of the Class of 2016, will be leaving Cooper City High for the last time in a few short months.  He plans to attend the University of Central Florida to study Biology, and to continue to be active in student organizations on campus.  Izenwasser could see himself potentially running for office in the future, especially on a local level. Perhaps we will see Izenwasser in the Oval Office in 2032.
“One of my main goals is to help improve education because education is the foundation for everything, and knowledge is power,” Izenwasser said. “In my future I do see myself running for public office, whether something like school board member, mayor, city council, senate, who knows. I never thought I would be SGA president, so whatever happens I’ll embrace it and do the best I can.”