of the public. A few hours later, the candidates gathered once again in Millett Hall for the third general assembly to deliver what were perhaps their most important speeches. Being nervous is almost inevitable especially when you're the focus in the eyes of everyone at convention, but all the candidates and their introductory speakers remained composed and professional. After their successful speeches, candidates dispersed again for their last hours of campaigning before the final event on Thursday morning: Candidates Open Forum.
Open Forum is arguably the most exciting candidate event of them all. No one, especially the candidates, can know what to expect, and it's especially more entertaining with the silly questions. This year's most memorable moments from Open Forum include Tim Han's nearly impossible questions which proved to be excruciating for the first vice president candidates but very interesting for the audience. He forbid the use of "uh"'s or "um"'s and even prompted the candidates for a haiku. The silly question for all candidates asked each to describe him/herself with one song lyric. Candidates evoked laughter from the crowd with their witty responses and good humor, and Open Forum proved to be a great way to not only learn more about the candidates' ideas and preparedness but also their personalities. As soon as Open Forum ended, individual state chapters convened to cast their final votes for their favorite candidates.
The time had finally arrived. Each of the officers from the 2017-2018 NJCL board announced their own successors after the final ballot count. The 2018-2019 NJCL officers are Editor Anika Park from Georgia, Historian Jesse Hogan from Massachusetts, Communications Coordinator Natalie Hilderbrand from California, Parliamentarian Layla Fistos from North Carolina, Second Vice President Michaela Phan from New Hampshire, First Vice President Aleah Malik from Illinois, and President Natasha Panduwawala from Maryland.
Thank you to everyone to ran for office this year for your admirable initiative and passion. The JCL will always advance thanks to leaders like you! Also, thank you to all voting delegates and other students who were so engaged throughout the election process. Staying informed and speaking out for the JCL's best interest is very important. The 2018-2019 NJCL board is incredibly honored to serve you.
NEW BOARD · Torch:U.S. · Fall 2018
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Below: Natasha Panduwawala delivers her speech at General Assembly III
Photo: Ryan Vinson