Jake Gilbert may be best known as the varsity football coach who led Westfield High School to an IHSAA state championship in 2016, but he’s taken countless steps in other areas to learn how to be the best leader he can.
That’s why he’s running for Westfield City Council District 2. He regards leadership as one of his strengths.
“I love it here. It’s an opportunity to serve and give back,” Gilbert said. “I’m invested here both now and for the future. I’ve always been called to do this. I want to plant roots and stay here. I want to be a part of the future. I do think it’s a pivotal time as we grow into what the city is ultimately going to be, and I think it’s going to take great leadership, and I hope to be a part of that solution.”
Gilbert is the dean of wellness at Westfield High School. Previously, he taught U.S. government and leadership classes. If elected, he would remain in his position with the schools.
“I just think we have some unforeseen challenges in our immediate future, and to me, it’s mainly about the opportunity to really shape our city going forward,” he said. “I think also as the city truly grows, trust and transparency and character are vital for anyone who’s going to lead, and I think I can provide that.”
In addition to his position as dean of wellness, Gilbert is in charge of social emotional learning programs at WHS and serves on several other committees, including the Westfield Washington Schools Wellness Committee, the Westfield Wellbeing Coalition and the Westfield Teachers Association. He also supports several charities, such as Young Life, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Impact, Open Doors, Westfield Youth Assistance Program and Westfield Youth Sports Inc., among others.
Gilbert was a finalist for National Coach of the Year award in 2017 and was named Indiana Coach of the- ear in 2013 and 2016.
For more, visit electjakegilbert.com.
