Key Club, the club with the most student involvement at Perry, recently gained major recognition last weekend when junior Dylan Crosby was named Indiana District Governor. Crosby is also the first African American to ever hold the role.
Crosby’s Key Club journey began at the start of her freshman year. “A lot of people hyped it up and everyone was telling me to join,” Crosby said. Since then, Crosby has been an active member of the club, working her way up through service opportunities and leadership roles.
Serving on the Indiana District Board, Crosby worked as Lieutenant Governor earlier this year. It was that same experience that encouraged her and gave her the confidence to run for Indiana District Governor. However, she first had to campaign for the position at the three-day District Leadership Convention (DLC). “I spoke on Friday night and just kind of got myself out there, and then Saturday night is the House of Delegates, which is where people can ask questions and then people vote after that,” Crosby said. Each school sends two delegates to vote, and by the end of the three-day convention Crosby had secured enough votes to win the position.
Not only does Crosby see this as a great honor to be recognized by her peers, but she is also motivated by the historical impact of holding this role. “I’m the first African American in general to have this role, and I’m the first person from Perry,” Crosby said. “I think that kind of inspired me to run because there was no other Black person doing it.”
Moving forward, Crosby is ready to use the opportunity to learn and grow. “I’ve never really been in charge of something or had a president-type job,” Crosby said. “It’s crazy to represent an entire state, but I want to use it as a learning curve.” Crosby is also excited to begin working on new projects and programs. “Helping with UNICEF and the Zambia Project are some goals. And you know, you can always help more,” Crosby said. She also hopes to focus on informing more people about the district and building enthusiasm for the organization.
With more than 5,000 members throughout the state, Crosby’s motto for leadership is simple: “We can always do more.” Reflecting on her experience in Key Club from freshman year to now, Crosby said the club has strengthened her commitment to service and helping others. “Taking time out of your day just to help make someone’s life better… that’s the main thing Key Club has taught me,” Crosby said. “I know it sounds generic, but meeting people throughout the state who all have a passion for service is really inspiring to me.”
By stepping into the role, Crosby hopes not only to lead Indiana’s Key Club members but also to inspire future leaders who may see themselves reflected in her path.
