“Spring into summer and the winter’s gone, I try to hold onto it, but the current’s too strong” -Lizzy McAlpine.

A common lyric sung in Lizzy McAlpine’s top song- but what is she trying to say? Let’s put it into the BBYO terms. Spring term was a blast (obviously), you have weekly programming, International Convention, wrapping up the term with awards as you shift into summertime with co-ed pool parties and final goodbyes until BBYO continues again in August. Here’s the hard part. Some of these goodbyes aren’t “see you in 2 months” or “let's get Chipotle after programming next week,” for the Class of 2026… It’s see you never. They soak up the final moments as it slowly turns into memories of a lifetime. Lizzy McAlpine also quotes in the song, “I’m always, forever running back to you." Which is true! BBYO will forever be interlinking you with other Jewish people around the globe. If it weren’t for the class of 2026, my love for BBYO wouldn’t be even near where it is today. From the countless carpoolings, the Big/Little posters piling up in my room, but most importantly, the close bond with a group who never saw me as a little kid but more as an emerging leader, thank you. 

To my seniors: whether you are leaving to go to an out-of-state college thousands of miles away or attending a state college (which is still 8 hours away from me in Florida) just know I “love you like I mean it”. You have led, inspired, and changed so many teens in this order. Don’t let the current pull you away from who you are and what you love. Whether it was 5 years in BBYO or only a couple of months, know that you made a difference in this organization.

“We have too many years between us” -Lizzy McAlpine; so don’t forget about me!