By Junior Key Clubber Shameen Pirzada
The New York District’s annual Leadership Training Conference (LTC) is a weekend long conference designed to provide leadership workshops and recognition to Key Club officers. Key Club, a student-led organization for high school students, focuses on developing leadership skills through community service. Members participate in a wide range of volunteer activities, fundraising and service projects that benefit both their schools and local communities. On March 28, Key Club members from across the state traveled to Albany to participate in the long-awaited conference, which featured a full day of engaging workshops covering a variety of topics such as leadership development, life and career skills, resume building and a deeper understanding of Key Club officer roles. Students also had several opportunities to network and connect with fellow Key Clubbers across the New York district, share ideas and form lasting connections with peers who share a similar passion for service and leadership. LTC 2025 proved to be not only a chance to learn and grow but also a celebration of the dedication and spirit that defines Key Club.
During LTC, as anticipation rose with the announcement of the new district board for the 25-26 service year, the retiring board recounted their memorable experiences and lessons they learned along the way. Jessica Strohofer, the Division 7 Lieutenant Governor for the 2024-2025 service year, said, “My responsibilities consisted of doing weekly updates, monthly newsletters, hosting divisionals and being in charge of over 1,000 people. Specifically, at LTC I had to help run and host workshops. Overall, I think LTC went phenomenal.” While the responsibilities of managing a division of over 100 students was no easy feat, Strohofer took great pride in her accomplishments, viewing them not as personal milestones but as contributions to a greater cause. She emphasized her pride, explaining, “I am most proud of how our division did this year. We raised over $100,000 for various charities, which is a record, and did 44,000+ service hours. Seeing how well the division did makes me proud to have served them.” Due to her efforts, Strohofer was awarded the Distinguished Lieutenant Governor Award.
At LTC, Lynbrook High School’s Key Club proudly took home an impressive ten awards, which included first place in the Interclub Award, second place in Service Hours Per Member (93.5), and the Key of Honor to the club’s advisor Dr. Benedict Tieniber. Such awards highlight the club’s unwavering commitment to service, leadership and community involvement. These awards recognize the immense hard work members and officers put throughout the year in order to accomplish the club’s goals.
Moreover, Katy Gottlieb, the Executive Assistant for the New York District for the 2024-2025 service year spoke on her journey: “I think LTC was a huge success this year! As EA, I was responsible for handing out awards, organizing welcome bags and name badges, delivering speeches and presenting awards.” The hard work and passion of the district officers are what truly made LTC a success. Their countless hours of planning, leading, and supporting their peers ensure that the conference is not only well-organized but also inspiring and motivating to every attendee. As a result of her work, Gottlieb was awarded the Outstanding Executive Officer Award for her dedication to service, supporting her fellow board members, and taking initiative throughout her term. Lastly, Gottlieb shares some advice for any individuals interested in pursuing a district position: “The biggest lesson I learned was don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and take initiative. Being daring as a leader has its benefits.” Putting oneself out there is essential to personal growth and leadership. It means stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing new experiences.
The newly elected board is filled with enthusiasm, ready to take on their roles with fresh ideas and passion. “I’m really excited to meet new people from all over Division 7 and work together on fun projects and events, said Skylar Wolkoff, the newly elected Division 7 Lieutenant Governor. I think it’s going to be really cool to help plan things and see everyone come together as a team. I’m also looking forward to growing as a leader and making this year fun and memorable for everyone.” She also opened up about her nervousness for the year ahead, expressing both excitement and uncertainty as she prepares to face new challenges and responsibilities. “I’m a little nervous about making sure I do a good job and don’t let anyone down... I hope to plan fun and meaningful events where we can make a real difference in our communities. I also want to help support every club in the division, whether that’s through better communication, sharing ideas or just being there when they need help.”
Lastly, Wolkoff ended her statement by offering some advice to others who express a passion for service: “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, even if it feels a little scary at first. My biggest advice is to stay organized, communicate clearly and don’t be afraid to ask for help — you’re not doing it alone.”
Ultimately, LTC serves as the perfect opportunity for students to showcase their leadership, talent, and capabilities outside the classroom. Attendees left the conference with an abundance of valuable insights that they hope to bring into their local communities. #OwlProud #OwlCares
Click here to view the LHS Key Club attends statewide Leadership Training Conference slideshow.
Date Added: 4/16/2025