Three students from Milford Public Schools attended the Nebraska/Iowa District Key Club convention in Columbus. One walked out with a new title and an other was honored for his design.
Natalie Nutzman was named Lieutenant Governor of Area 1 and Stephen Vance’s shirt design won. Alayna Tvrdy also attended the conference.
According to keyclub.org, “Key Club is an international, student-led organization that provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character and develop leadership. Key Club members around the world are learning how to lead and stand for what’s right through service and volunteerism. In partnership with their local Kiwanis club, high school students are making a positive impact as they serve others in their schools and communities.”
Nutzman said her and Tvrdy’s days at the convention were very different.
“I was mainly doing election stuff and a lot of campaigning and leadership building with the current board and members of the board I will be serving with,” she said. “It was a lot of giving speeches and talking to people.”
For Tvrdy, she was busy with breakout rooms and the social aspect of Key Club.
As for why they joined Key Club, both Nutzman and Tvrdy said they thought it would be fun and others encouraged them to join.
“My sister was also a big member in the Key Club,” Nutzman said. “Like any older sister would, she nudged me in the direction of her activities.”
Now as Lieutenant Governor of Area 1, Nutzman will oversee clubs in the area, which include everything from Grand Island to North Platte.
“I will be reaching out and working with the district board,” she said.
Michelle Wittstruck, Key Club advisor at Milford Public Schools, said the club is a great way for kids to serve their community and school.
“There are things that we try and do within the school to help kids like starting a pantry,” she said. “I think getting kids involved early and often with serving others and having fun with it is a good thing.”
Wittstruck said kids in the club are always willing to help.
“We have a good group of kids that are excited to do things,” she said. “It provides a good service for others, too.”
After being involved in Key Club, both Nutzman and Tvrdy said they would recommend others to join.
“I recently went and spoke to the (Kiwanis) K Kids about joining just because it’s a great opportunity,” Nutzman said. “You get to serve in your community and step up and be a role model.”
“It’s a great leadership opportunity and a lot of fun,” Tvrdy said.
Tvrdy also mentioned you can make a lot of friends in the club. Some of those new friends are coming up from Iowa to watch her perform in Milford’s musical, “The Little Mermaid.”
Even if someone isn’t in Key Club, Nutzman said they can still come down and volunteer.
“You can still come and support your community and be a part of it,” she said. “Feel free to stop down and see what it’s like.”
