OFFICER VOICES · Fall 2026 · Torch: U.S.
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around the country, many of whom I look up to, and some who look up to me.
That being said, I could not have asked for a better NJCL convention to end my term as an officer and my years as a JCLer. To everyone I talked with about the NJCL constitution or parliamentarian pro, to all the candidates I laughed with about anything from the Aristotelian causes of a sandwich to asking my NJCL election-based Certamen questions, and to everyone I saw who simply inspired me through their actions, to leave nothing on the table (get it?), thank you ab imo pectore. Y’all indeed delivered and made this whole convention simultaneously hilarious and epic.
Valete JCL! I hope to stick around, and I can’t wait to see what things y’all do next!
Kai Benton
2025-2026 NJCL Parliamentarian
Salvete omnes,
It has been such an honor serving as your historian this past year. I’ve loved seeing all of your Photo of the Month submissions; they’ve given me a glimpse into how each of you experiences the JCL at both the state and local levels. More than anything, they’ve shown me that every one of you has a unique connection to and perspective on the classics. While many of our experiences are similar— Saturnalia celebrations, Certamen, and state conventions— countless moments and traditions are entirely your own.
I think that’s part of the charm of being in the JCL and coming to convention: being able to connect with such a diverse group of people with different backgrounds, interests, and experiences, while still being united by our love of the classics. Getting to photograph these moments of victory, concentration, laughter, and fun has been incredibly fulfilling. Making the scrapbook was especially bittersweet as I prepared for my final act as your historian. I hope you’ll take a look at it and see a little piece of the memories we’ve made together!
Being a historian for so many years has taught me one very important lesson: cherish your memories wherever you make them. No photograph, video, or scrapbook can ever completely recreate the feeling of being there in that moment. But they can remind us of the people we were with, the things we accomplished, and the little moments we might otherwise forget.
This role has also given me the confidence to make friends from all over the state, try new things, and, of course, do what I love. I’m so grateful that I got to spend this past year preserving your memories— and making a few of my own along the way.
I think the little me, attending my first NJCL convention at Emory University, being scared (and intrigued) by all the chaotic energy, would be proud. Thank you for letting me be your historian.
Valete,
Aanshi Patel
2025-2026 NJCL Historian
Salvete amici!
I’ve had an incredible year serving as your NJCL editor! It has truly been an amazing experience, witnessing this organization grow in so many areas from seeing chapters start their own publications to catching up with new JCLers at my Editors’ Meetings.
Most of all, the National Convention had been a blast. I enjoyed meeting up with all of you and seeing all of your energy that you bring to Spirit. Reading out each publication award brought me back to your newsletters that will forever inspire me and the memories I’ll forever cherish.
Although my term as your editor has come to an end, I am more than honored to continue my term in office as your NJCL president. I can’t wait to lead this organization and make more memories in this upcoming year!
Ab imo pectore,
Olivia Chen
2025-2026 NJCL Editor