CONVENTION RECAP · Fall 2026 · Torch: U.S.
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As some attendees filed out of the auditorium for Olympika swim, orientation for spirit and service, and colloquia, others remained near the auditorium eager for the first academic testing session. Socialization filled the remainder of the night, as JCLers headed over to various Certamen sessions, mixers, and Agora. Delegates who are attending convention for the first time played intense rounds of Mafia at the New-to-JCL Mixer, while state officers socialized with each other at the State Officer Reception. The night ended with fellowship, as each state met up in their rooms to wrap up the day and discuss events for the next day.
Early on Wednesday morning, many exciting activities were already underway. JCLers ran Olympika Track and Field events and zoomed into the academic contest session featuring a wide smattering of classical topics. English Oratory and the new Creative Arts Contest Vocal Performance also saw enthusiastic participants. At General Assembly II, states showed off their t-shirts during spirit and engaged the audience in their roll call skits. As attendees read through the Convention Ear digitally, candidates prepared for the Nominations Committee Meeting, and performers prepared for That’s Entertainment! auditions. Evening activities included Latin Oratory, Team Trivia, dance, and karaoke, as well as meeting the NJCL officers and the diversity mixer. That night also kicked off the start of World Series of Certamen and the NSCL’s mystery exam.
On the following day, succeeding the Amendments Committee Meeting, which introduced two amendments relating to NJCL office, and several colloquia, JCLers engaged in Propless Spirit, and joy filled the air as silver bowl recipients were announced at General Assembly III. Following the joy, the 14 candidates for office stepped up to the podium eager to give their speeches before all attendees, outlining their qualifications and goals for office. Second Vice President Sophia Kantsevoy closed the assembly with spirit awards and an update on Coin Craze.
As JCLers engaged in Academic Decathlon, graphic arts viewing, and Ludi Volleyball, teachers gathered at the Teaching and Learning Materials Display to explore the multitude of Classics materials and resources. Later that night, JCLers competed in the costume contest and Agon, as well as socialized in the Roman Murder Mystery activity. Before long, it was time for fellowship, and curfew came soon enough.
Friday saw the final academic testing session and final event for candidates before announcing the result. Candidates answered a plethora of questions, ranging from serious to creative, about themselves, their platforms, and their qualifications at Open Forum. Following a delicious lunch, each state discussed and voted on candidates and amendments at State Voting Fellowship. Later at General Assembly IV, results for the 2026-2027 NJCL officers were announced, followed by the presentation of scholarships, chorus performance, and recognition of retiring committee members. Later that night, gathering many attendees, That’s Entertainment! showcased the talents of attendees, and everyone engaged in the annual “Brown Squirrel” dance.