18
with njcl officers
skype calls
PRESIDENTS' CALL
The NJCL Officers hosted JCL Skype calls during January to meet and discuss their specific offices with other local and state officers. There were two calls for each office: one for local officers and another for state. Some officers with comparable duties hosted joint skype calls. The NJCL Officers have written descriptions for each of the Skype calls.
NATASHA PANDUWAWALA
VICE PRESIDENTS' CALL
ALEAH MALIK & MICHAELA PHAN
The Vice President Skype call was held on January 12 with Aleah Malik and Michaela Phan. Before the call, questions were submitted, which were then answered during the call. In addition, they answered questions and worked through voiced problems with the vice presidents who were present during the call. Most membership, service, and spirit related questions were asked in regard to specific challenges for certain chapters such as how to increase membership in a struggling chapter, how to introduce spirit to an inexperienced chapter, and how to create service projects that are applicable to their local community.
Local: The meeting began on a high note with multiple local presidents joining in from all across the JCL map. We discussed similar problems within our chapters and potential solutions. One local president launched an initiative at their local middle school where officers would take turns speaking at the Latin classes to promote Latin Club and JCL. They hoped to bridge the rough transition that follows going into high school, where many freshmen quit Latin Club. Another issue that was brought involved "senioritis." Once the first semester of senior year finishes up, boards will begin to lose productivity because of these "senioritis-ridden" seniors. One president suggested pairing each senior with an underclassman who can help pick up the slack when it is needed. Not only does this bolster an effective board, but it gives a mentorship opportunity to potential officers. Overall, I was thrilled with the discussion that took place. I am certain that each president left with at least one new idea or one new perspective on an issue that they face.
State: I had nine state presidents who joined me for the State Officers Skype Call. I began the call by promoting state officer email accounts. Throughout my term, I've wanted an easy transition for the NJCL President when establishing solid communication methods with state presidents. We discussed potential solutions again. After this, we commenced the discussion about common issues seen in state chapters. One president struggled to find a variety of events to host rather than just having Certamen competitions. One state suggested having an event solely dedicated to service. From the beginning until the end, every attendee would be involved in a hands-on activity while bonding with their fellow JCLers. Another issue was the inability to find schools that have Latin programs in their state. This led to several presidents pooling in resources that can help find these schools. It was wonderful to check in with each attending president on how their term has been and help make the rest of their term run at least a little smoother.