Summit High School Celebrates the Launch of the Exchange/Excel Club
On November 1, 2024, Summit High School in Fontana, California, marked a significant milestone with the chartering of its new student organization, the Exchange/Excel Club of Summit High School. Sponsored by the Exchange Club of Fontana, this initiative brings together 31 dedicated students eager to volunteer and serve their community through various impactful events.
The ceremony was officiated by Shirley Lashmett, the past Region 1 Vice President, who represented the national Exchange Club organization. The event also welcomed several distinguished guests, including California/Nevada District President, Ken Dufour, California/Nevada District President Elect, Jean Pierre Fallou, as well as Brock Champion, the President of the Exchange Club of Fontana. Special attendees included Jesse Armendarez, Second District County Supervisor for San Bernardino, and Fontana Unified School District Superintendent Miki Inbody, both of whom emphasized the importance of community service in shaping responsible citizens.
The Exchange/Excel Club aims to make a meaningful contribution to the city of Fontana community, participating in significant local events such as the Fontana Christmas Parade, the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, the Fontana Days Parade, and the Fontana Days Festival. In addition, the club will support the Exchange Club’s national campaign for Child Abuse Awareness, highlighting its commitment to social issues that affect children and families.
During the charter event, the new club members took an oath affirming their dedication to the values and mission of the Exchange Club. The ceremony also introduced the club’s charter officers: President Edwin Trujillo, Vice President Meaghan Stewart, Secretary Zoie Allen, Treasurer Sebastian Sanchez, Public Relations Officer Joshua Gonzales, Marketing Officer Ella Antekeier, and Historian Te’ariah Ruff. These student leaders will guide the club’s activities and initiatives throughout the school year.
Recognizing the vital role of faculty support, the event honored teachers Jarrold Chang and Mary D. Armendarez, who will serve as club advisors, providing mentorship and guidance to the students. Club builders Vanessa Antekeier and Vicky Garcia (photographer) from the Exchange Club of Fontana were also acknowledged for their efforts in establishing the new club.
The Exchange/Excel Club of Summit High School represents not only a new opportunity for student engagement but also a commitment to community service and civic responsibility. As part of a national network of Exchange Clubs, the students are now subject to the bylaws and policies outlined by The National Exchange Club, ensuring they uphold the values of integrity, service, and commitment to the betterment of their communities.
This exciting launch event underscores the power of youth involvement in community service and sets the stage for a future filled with service projects and meaningful contributions to the Fontana area. The Exchange/Excel Club of Summit High School is poised to make a lasting impact, fostering a spirit of volunteerism and leadership among its members.
