At Carrollwood Day School, we love seeing our students honor their past while stepping up as leaders and changemakers in the community. We celebrate eighth-grader Annalise Giddarie, who is a shining example of leadership, passion, and service, both at CDS and beyond. Whether she's lighting up the stage as Morticia and Rizzo in the latest Middle School theatre productions, performing with the Middle School Thespian Troupe, playing guitar in the Honors Ensemble and Jr. Tri-M Music Honor Society, or serving as an executive council member of the Spanish Honor Society, Annalise consistently rises to the occasion and makes a meaningful impact. Beyond her many school activities, she is also an active member of the Emerging Young Leaders program, a mentorship initiative of the Gamma Theta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Through her dedication to service, leadership, and honoring her family's heritage, Annalise is inspiring those around her today while paving the way for future generations to follow.
Emerging as a Leader
The Emerging Young Leaders program is designed to provide middle school girls with opportunities for leadership skills development, civic engagement, enhanced academic preparation, and character building. Through the program, Annalise has taken bold steps in leadership, running for secretary last year and now serving as president. As president, she leads initiatives that empower young women and uplift the community. Under Annalise’s leadership, EYL members have engaged in community service projects, participated in the annual MLK parade, and contributed to initiatives like the Ivy AKAdemy, which helps students prepare for college. Annalise is aware of the impact that her involvement in EYL is having in her school life as well, as she shares that this opportunity has taught her to speak up, seize leadership opportunities, and stay true to who she is, all qualities that will serve her well every day of her life.
“EYL has had a great impact on my community by promoting diversity, individuality, and leadership while fostering a sense of unity and collective action,” she said. “Personally, it has helped me become a more effective communicator and embrace my individuality with confidence. This journey has been empowering, and I am grateful for the growth and leadership skills I have developed through EYL,” she said.
An Expression of Gratitude
Annalise’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. During the City of Tampa's 35th annual MLK Day Parade this February, she was featured in a live interview on ABC Action News, where she eloquently spoke about the Emerging Young Leaders program. She also offered a sneak peek of her parade performance, a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy celebrating diversity through dance. Her parents expressed their immense pride, stating that Annalise’s commitment to service and leadership is a testament to the values instilled at CDS.
“Annalise’s interview beautifully showcases her ability to bring people together, communicate effectively, and embody a sense of responsibility and empathy—qualities that Carrollwood Day School emphasizes in nurturing well-rounded, compassionate leaders,” Dr. Mark and Maria Giddarie shared. “We are grateful to CDS for fostering such an environment that encourages students like Annalise to thrive academically, socially, and as community leaders. Her success is a testament to the school’s commitment to character education and its support of student initiatives that go beyond the classroom. We are confident that her participation in this event will inspire others in the CDS school community to pursue similar opportunities for growth and service."
Annalise's Vision for the Future
Annalise’s journey is an inspiring example of how young leaders can make a meaningful impact while honoring their heritage. Through EYL, she is setting a standard for her peers, demonstrating the power of service, leadership, and resilience, all while showing a tremendous amount of courage. As she continues to grow, there is no doubt that her influence will extend far beyond CDS, leaving a lasting mark on her community and inspiring others to better the world.
“My goal is to empower my peers to become more confident speakers, build meaningful connections with the mentors and adult figures in their lives, and step outside their comfort zones to explore new skills and potential opportunities,” Annalise said. “Most importantly, I hope to encourage them to take that first step, that leap toward success—not just for themselves, but also for their friends, families, and communities.”
You can watch Annalise's ABC Action News interview here.