Name: Haleigh Gaston. 
Preferred pronouns: she/her.
District: New York.
Year in School: Senior.
University: University at Albany.
Major(s): Criminal justice and sociology.
Minor(s): Psychology and legal studies.
Tell us about yourself in three to five sentences. My name is Haleigh Gaston, and I am the New York Circle K International District governor for the 2022-2023 service year! I enjoy being active in my community and helping others. In my free time, I love to go on nature walks and visit local farmers markets.
Why did you join CKI? I joined CKI to continue my journey in the Kiwanis family. I began by joining Builders Club, then Key Club and finally Circle K! I wanted to continue to help my community and surround myself with people who want to do the same. It has allowed me to improve my leadership skills and has given me lifelong friendships.
Why did you run for governor? I ran for district governor because I want to use the knowledge I had gained throughout my time in this organization to guide others and show them what an amazing organization this is. I want everyone to be able to experience the opportunities CKI provides its members. I felt as though this was my time to give back to an organization that has given me so much.
What is your favorite CKI memory? My favorite CKI memory was in 2019 when I attended Serve-a-Thon at Rochester Institute of Technology. This was my first event that was districtwide. I was able to see how much bigger CKI is than just my home club at UAlbany. It was amazing to be able to get to know people from all over the state and participate in an entire day of service projects.
What do you see yourself doing in 10 years? In 10 years, I can see myself working in the legal profession as a lawyer in the public sector helping those in need or related field. I will continue my journey in the Kiwanis family by joining a Kiwanis club.
What is your favorite movie or TV show? My favorite TV show is “New Girl.” I love any type of comedy, but I’ve found myself going back and rewatching this show at least three times. There’s something about it that makes it easy to watch, and I still laugh at the same scenes.
What is your favorite book? My favorite book is “It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover. I thought this was going to be like every romance book I’ve read, but I was mistaken. I read the entire book in about a day because I just couldn’t put it down!
What is the best advice you have received? “Leadership is Action — Not Position” I received this advice from a fortune cookie. Although it seems simple, it resonated with me. No matter your status in your club, whether you are an officer or a general member, you have the opportunity to lead those around you.
What is something people might not know about you? I have a tattoo on my ankle that says the song title “Drift Away” because I listened to that song as a child with my father, who passed away when I was in high school.
