Way to Go! Oceanside student named top Key Club president
Ava Blau, a senior at Oceanside High School, has been named “Outstanding President” of a Key Club out of about 270 clubs statewide. Credit: Ava Blau
An Oceanside High School student has been named the state's "Outstanding President" for Key Club.
Ava Blau, a junior, took the title out of approximately 270 clubs statewide for her efforts during the past two years as president of her school's Key Club, a student-led organization that provides opportunities for service, character-building and leadership development under the umbrella of Kiwanis International.
The award was issued by the New York District Key Club.
"Being named 'Outstanding President' is a very rewarding accomplishment although it would not have been possible without the hard work of the other officers and all of our members," said Blau, 17. "I love helping out the community in any way, so being recognized for our accomplishments is very exciting.”
Under Blau's leadership, Oceanside has doubled its club membership and raised $20,000 through such efforts as a popcorn sale, making it the second-highest fundraising club in the state. The club supported causes including the nonprofit Alex’s Lemonade Stand and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
The club's adviser, Jeremy Zylbert, credited the group's collective officers, including Blau, for their dedication.
"Our six officers are very well-rounded students who participate in a ton of events and sports, meaning they can recruit students from all corners of the school," Zylbert said.
Blau is also treasurer of her school's junior class and a member of the girls tennis team and World Language Honor Society.
— MICHAEL R. EBERT
