Torch: U.S. LXXV Fall 2025 | Page 6

If you know me, you know that service is my favorite (and I mean…FAVORITE) part of the JCL. It is just so wonderful how this organization carves out so much time during our National Conventions to give back to our community! During Service Sessions, mythology nerds unite with literature lovers, and I find that beautiful. 

Initially, I planned to assemble 100 care packages for houseless individuals throughout Ohio. However, with your help and hard work, we more than TRIPLED that estimation, assembling 362 care packages (and additional single-item donations). These care packages had essential items such as deodorant, tooth brushes, toothpaste, socks, combs, shampoo, single serve snacks, juice boxes, feminine hygiene products, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and encouraging cards. I am so proud of this organization for coming together to make a difference. It was so wonderful to meet all of you all, and I am so grateful for this opportunity to share my passion for community service. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. 

This year, our NJCL Officers also continued the tradition of fighting for a chosen charity. Last year, we lost two beloved Ohio Latin teachers far too soon. One passed from brain cancer, the other from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a devastating and incurable neurological disorder. Both were passionate educators who left a lasting impact on their students and the classics community. By raising around $800 and supporting the National Brain Tumor Society, we honored their memory and helped fund critical research and support for others affected. 

This year, the "loser" was NJCL Editor Felix Chen with -30,171 points. As his consequence, Felix sang a beautiful rendition of "I Won’t Say (I’m in Love)" from the Hercules film. It was wonderful, to say the least. 

I am so excited to see where Sophia takes service next year. Thank you all for your hard work!

Service Updates and

Coin Craze Recap

Thank You!

Audrey Lin, 2024-2025 NJCL Second Vice President

Olivia Chen, 2025-2026 NJCL Editor

Year after year, the NJCL Convention remains the highlight of the summer for countless students and adults alike. With its multitude of engaging events and insightful lectures, this year’s convention in Ohio continues that tradition. Here, we extend our gratitude to those who worked for innumerable hours to make this year’s convention exceptional.

To Miami University and the Ohio State Board, thank you for hosting us for an unforgettable week. Your flexibility and accommodations made this convention possible. We will reminisce about your deer, ice cream machine, and corny jokes.

To the 2024-2025 Executive Board, thank you for directing this year’s convention. Your hard work has truly spread the JCLove throughout the country and beyond, welcoming us all to a shared space to enjoy indulging in the classics.

To the SCL, thank you for dedicating numerous hours planning fun events, such as Olympika. Your humor has made JCLers interested in your cause and continue their journey in the classics after graduation.

To the sponsors and chaperones, thank you for your time and efforts to bring JCLers to this convention. You empower us in your devotion — whether that’s through coaching your Certamen teams or supporting your students.  

To all JCLers, thank you for your commitment to the classics. You are the individuals of the community that the JCL aspires to bring together. I truly enjoyed talking and getting to learn about each and every one of you.

Fall 2025 · Torch: U.S. · CONVENTION THANK YOUS

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