21
Andrew Tom
UC Davis
New Orleans, Louisiana – one of the most authentic and culturally rich cities in the United
States – was the location was Circle K International Convention 2012. This year, I lucky
enough to travel with thirty other members
of the CNH District to where Circle K members
came together to vote on matters crucial to
our organization.
At ICON, we had the opportunity to meet
members from around the world, learn about
the latest developments in CKI, and cast votes
for the next generation of international leadership. I had an amazing time with CNH showing off our cheers throughout convention, and
it was so inspiring to be part of a District that
brought home 40 awards!
After some lengthy flights and shuttle rides,
I arrived at the hotel realizing very quickly that
ICON is very different from the District Conventions we know and love. Since it does involve
traveling further away, there are fewer Circle
K members that can attend. However, nearly
every member who attends represents their
club as a delegate! Nearly 200 members met
this year in the House of Delegates, presided
over by the International President. There, we
voted on amendments to the bylaws, as well
as our international candidates – all by electronic ballot! The debates and questions that
candidates answered were also very interesting to watch.
Another big difference was the convention
itself! For the first time ever, this convention
was held in conjunction with Kiwanis Convention, and Circle K members had the opportunity to experience a day in the life of Kiwanis
firsthand. From flashmobbing Kiwanis Opening Session, to participating in the Leadership
Luncheon, Kiwanis International proved the
most gracious of hosts to their collegiate counterparts.
Last but not least, it was a pleasure experiencing New Orleans and meeting so many people. From sampling world famous beignets, to
making friends from the East Coast and Canada, ICON pro ?YY[?[??YX?H??H[?HY?][YH^ \?Y[??K?] ?\?]?\??YH?Z[??X?B???? ?]?\??H?Y[X?\?????HX?????\????\? ?X?\? ?[ ??HY? H[???\?Y?H ??H? [?H ????Y\??] [?[??P???^ YX\?[??[???]?\??[?YK?\?K [?x?&[?[???H?X\??[?? ?\??[??XY\?????H\??[? H ?? [?[??[\?[? K H[??YX?H?[??H ? ?\ ?\?[??[?\??YH? X??H ?? ?YH]?[ ???