Let’s delve into the National Exchange Club Convention that took place in San Antonio last week. This annual gathering, which marked the 106th edition, brought together approximately 500 guests. Attendees had the opportunity to celebrate successes, learn from nationally known speakers, and network with fellow members. The event was truly a weekend to anticipate, fostering camaraderie and inspiring future opportunities.
We want to congratulate Mike Reichek on officially taking the helm as National President as he had been ‘acting’ National President since January as well as Joe Dudek as National President-Elect.
Celebrating Excellence: National Exchange Club Awards
Youth of the Year Scholarship
The Youth of the Year scholarship recognizes exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, and ambition. These role models inspire their peers through scholastic achievement and respect for self and others.
The winner was Brandon Liu, our Youth of the Year from our home district, California/Nevada, and he gave an inspiring speech on being a family of immigrants from communist China and how he wants to work in foreign affairs.
Accepting the Challenge of Excellence (A.C.E.) Award
The A.C.E. Award honors students who have overcome adversity to graduate high school and positively transform their lives. Their resilience and perseverance serve as powerful examples for all students. This award underscores the value of hard work and determination.
The winner was Brooke Lovering the A.C.E. (Accepting the Challenge of Excellence) recipient, her story of overcoming parental abandonment and drug addiction was inspiring and she has a bright future ahead.
Legacy of the Year Honorees
The Legacy of the Year award recognizes outstanding high school students who are children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren of Exchange Club members. These students inspire others to serve their communities and country. Local-level scholarship recipients automatically qualify for district-level scholarships, and winners at the national level receive a scholarship.
The winner was Gabrielle Willis, our Youth Legacy recipient, and all of her hard work as a young leader in community service!
These remarkable individuals embody the spirit of service and achievement. Congratulations to the winners from San Antonio!
Inspiring Voices at the National Exchange Club Event in San Antonio.
The National Exchange Club event in San Antonio last week was a resounding success, thanks to an exceptional lineup of speakers. Their stories of resilience, courage, and determination left a lasting impression on all attendees.
Christina Meredith: A Journey from Ashes to Hope – Christina Meredith’s remarkable journey is one of triumph over adversity. Surviving sexual, mental, and emotional abuse, she emerged from the depths of trauma, foster care, poverty, and homelessness. Her unwavering faith, relentless hard work, and creative spirit propelled her forward. From these challenging beginnings, Christina achieved extraordinary milestones. Her book, “CinderGirl: My Journey Out of the Ashes to a Life of Hope,” serves as a testament to the power of dreams and purpose. Christina’s message is clear: with determination and faith, we can overcome any obstacle.
Rhonda Kuykendall: A Survivor’s Story – Experience as a survivor of human trafficking is both heartbreaking and inspiring. At just 10 years old, she was promised a successful modeling career by her trafficker. Instead, she endured years of abuse.
Rhonda’s resilience and courage shine through her story. Her survival is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. By sharing her journey, she raises awareness about the urgent need to combat trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals.
Douglas Taurel’s Powerful Performance – Character actor Douglas Taurel delivered an unforgettable off-Broadway play titled “American Soldier.” Through his portrayal of soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the Iraq War, Taurel brought attention to the struggles faced by veterans, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). His performance resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the importance of supporting our servicemen and women.
Court of Honor Inductee’s and National Exchangite of the Year.
Court of Honor Inductee’s and National Exchangite of the Year.This prestigious ceremony celebrates Exchange Club members who exemplify an outstanding commitment to the ideals and mission of The National Exchange Club. These remarkable individuals have made lasting contributions, embodying the spirit of service and dedication. Induction into the Court of Honor is the highest recognition within Exchange, a testament to their unwavering impact on their communities and beyond.
Congratulations to Russ Finney as the National Exchangite of the Year, it has always been a pleasure to work with him over these many years; two special Exchangites from our region who will be getting inducted into the Court of Honor this October at the National Headquarters in Ohio, Shirley Clayton Lashmett and Linda Carlson.
In summary, the National Exchange Club event showcased resilience, hope, and advocacy. These speakers reminded us that no matter the circumstances, we can create positive change through faith, hard work, and compassion.
