May 2019
The first Key Club Installation Banquet I ever attended was Waipahu High School’s, over a decade ago. I was impressed with the formality of the event, the number of proud families in attendance, and the excited and nervous Key Clubbers watching everyone arrive, ensuring their event ran as scheduled, and rehearsing their parts.
This year, I attended Waipahu High School’s Key Club Installation Banquet after years of missing their wonderful event. Fond memories of attending my first banquet rushed back as I walked through the decorated entrance. Tables were decorated throughout the cafeteria, Key Club family members dined on a delicious buffet of American and Filipino entrees and desserts, and Key Club officers were semi-formally dressed in black and white.
The event ran like clockwork, students were prepped and listening for their cues to walk on stage. Family members joined each Key Club officer on stage. Candles were lit and extinguished as each new officer was installed and each past officer was retired. Applause and an inspirational speech by the newly installed Key Club President closed the event. Another successful Waipahu High School Key Club Installation Banquet came to a conclusion, the passing of the torch was completed, and a new Key Club Board was ready to go.
Traditions and events such as Key Club Installation Banquets are essential to inform and inspire Key Club members to run for future officer positions. The Waipahu High School Key Club and its advisors do an excellent job of upholding this fine tradition.
~ Judy Watanabe