BALTIMORE
Seventeen members of the Southampton Key Club traveled to Baltimore, Maryland, to attend the 66th annual International Capital District Convention the weekend of March 20-22. Competing against 274 other clubs from Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C., Southampton won first place in the two most significant award categories: the Single Service Project of the Year Award and the Major Emphasis Award.

The Single Service Project of the Year Award was presented to Southampton for its sponsorship of the “Kick the ‘R’ Word” campaign, while the latter acknowledges the Key Club most involved in improving the lives of children within their school and community.

The group was also highly recognized in other classifications, as well, including the highest ranking any Key Club can achieve internationally: the Distinguished Club — Diamond Level. This designation is based on student leadership, support of Kiwanis service projects and fundraising.

“She [Michelle McHenry, sponsor of the Key Club] works diligently with these students,” school superintendent Dr. Alvera J. Parrish said.

During the past school year, members of the Key Club have volunteered a cumulative total of 5,922 service hours within the district and community, for which they received two additional awards. The Eliminate 1K Award was given for the club’s fundraising efforts to end maternal-neonatal tetanus, and the Governor’s Project Award was presented for the club’s volunteer work with the Special Olympics and Zuni Presbyterian Homes.

Several members of the Southampton Key Club also received individual awards. Jena Araojo won the Distiguished Officer Award for President; Shane Bullock won the Above and Beyond Member Award; and Sarah Giorgi won first place for her Digital Poster. Cameron McHenry was named the Lieutenant Governor for Division 21 for the second-consecutive year.

“We’re extremely proud to recognize these kids,” Parrish said.

The aforementioned students, as well as their peers who participated in the convention, were sent a letter of congratulations from Parrish and were recognized at the March school board meeting.