Torch: U.S. LXXIV Fall 2024 | Page 16

Fall 2024 · Torch: U.S. · CONVENTION RECAP

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Mr. Kyle McGimsey

Kyle McGimsey goes by many names, Kyle McGrimsley, Kyle McJimsly, Kylie McGrimmy, but for now we’ll go with Kyle. Kyle’s JCL journey started in 2001 and he attended Nationals as a JCLer in 2004 and 2005. His love of the classics and the NJCL didn’t stop there as he then went on to attend National Conventions as a member of the SCL from 2006 to present (only missing one convention within that time). He was awarded his silver bowl aw

ard in 2024 for attending his 20th convention! Kyle also served on the National Committee as NSCL advisor and olympica chair from 2017 to 2024. Outside of NJCL, Kyle teaches Latin at Trinity Preparatory School of Florida and he also serves as Registrar for the Classical Association of Florida. Other than being so dedicated to JCL, Kyle is known for being a fantastic mentor, and having a wicked sense of humor. Thank you Kyle for all you have done!

Mr. Seth Knowles

When I started in the JCL, somethign always stood out to me: no matter who you are or what your talents may be, JCL provides ways for all to discover more about themselves and their studies of the ancient world through whatever means appeal. Yet, when we think of what goes on at any JCL convention, we tend to focus on the things that are most visible: the academic talents of the Certamen players, the beautiful art on display in Graphic Arts, or the poise and innovative thinking of candidates running for office. But, for as many as find their niche in those activities, there are just as many who spend their time pushing themselves in the Creative Arts contests: researching their characters, writing and rewriting their oratory, rehearsing with anyone who will listen, and embellishing their costumes with needle and thread. All of this work often goes unseen, usually displayed in front of only a small panel of judges, but the JCLers that do it put their heart, passion, and energy into it like they are performing in front of thousands because expressing their love of the ancient world through creative performance is how they make a home for themselves in JCL.

For the past eight years, none of that would be possible if not for the painstaking work put in by Seth Knowles. Mr. Knowles worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the Creative Arts contests was just right: judges were trained, rooms and schedules set, passages and prompts polished, and more. Mr. Knowles has made sure that his contests became more open for students to participate, adding choices and removing unnecessary restrictions. He was also a constant leader on the NJCL Board, readily sharing his thoughts while constantly ensuring that JCL is for everyone, encouraging and teaching us all to approach every conversation with compassion and consideration of the needs of our members. Creative Arts and the NJCL are places where JCLers can express their interests in ways that align with who they are, and Seth Knowles has been an incredible champion of creating that environment. I am proud to have been able to learn from him and his example, and I am pleased to count him among my JCL friends!

Mr. Todd Wegenhart, NJCL Programs and Scholastic Services and Committee Chair

Kara Schwantz, 2024-2025 NSCL Secretary