On April 5 to April 7, members of MT Key Club took a trip to Penn State for the annual Key Club District Convention, DCON. They learned about Key Club and its partners and took part in community service projects.

After arriving at The Penn Stater Conference Center, Key Club members were able to see the opening session, which consisted of award presentations and speeches by governors, the lieutenant secretary/treasurer, lieutenant editor and guest speaker Joe Battista, a former hockey coach and now public speaker.

The next day of DCON was full of workshops, a closing session and a dance the Key Club members could enjoy.

Workshops were 30 minute long sessions where members had a choice to choose what organization they wanted to learn more about, such as MiniTHON or Special Olympics.

They also got the opportunity to participate in the public speaking workshop. Key Club members who chose this workshop said it was a useful experience.

“There was a lot of creativity involved and I found it a way to express myself,” said Tina Huynh, the 2024-25 secretary for MTHS Key Club.

In the closing session, Joshua Kim, the former PA Key Club Governor for 2023 and 2024, spoke. He made his speech to say goodbye to the past year of Key Club and reflect on the memories made and thank his fellow board members.

Next, the 2024 and 2025 board members were inducted. This includes MT’s Katie Gaalswyk, now in the bulletin editor position for PA Key Club.

After some late nights throughout the weekend, a dance was held at the hotel open to all Key Club members.

Overall, MT students that went to DCON found it beneficial.

“I loved spending time with friends and getting educated on stuff I didn’t know,” said sophomore Moussa Jamil. “I would absolutely recommend it to others. DCON is one of the most fun things I’ve done. You bond with your friends and it’s nice for memories and a great way to get involved in the club as well.”