Elise Matney
GUEST SPEAKER
Elise Matney is a ninth grader from Minneapolis, Minnesota, with a long-standing passion for writing and journalism. A regular contributor to her school newspaper and neighborhood magazine, she is always eager to uncover and share overlooked stories that matter. Elise’s early education at a Quaker school sparked a deep commitment to truth-seeking, which continues to fuel her interest in civic engagement, research, and reporting.
When she is not writing, Elise enjoys adventures with her dog, Chloe, serves on student government, and supports a recently resettled family with two daughters her age. She also stays active through tennis, dance, golf, and lacrosse. In 2026, Elise became the Minnesota state champion in USA gymnastics, tumbling, and trampoline. Elise will attend Groton School this fall.
Elise's poem "TAMING OF THE MACHINE" was the first place winner in the Pulitzer Center's 2025 Fighting Words Poetry Contest's Information and AI category.
