Each week, as Friday approaches, Kent students receive a now-familiar email listing the weekend’s events. These emails, filled with a mix of humor, casual language, and emojis, have become an essential part of campus life. But beyond the tone is a carefully coordinated effort by the Blue Key Heads—student leaders tasked with organizing and promoting weekend programming.
The Blue Key Heads are two seniors who work closely with the Sixth Form Representatives and Director of Student Activities Mrs. Shafer. Together, they plan a range of student activities—trips to town, movie outings, music room hours, dances, and athletic events. “We meet every week in Ms. Schafer’s apartment,” Clara explained. “Most of the events come from student suggestions. We try to include something for everyone.”
These weekly meetings are crucial for shaping the weekend’s calendar. The team schedules events around other campus activities, such as theatre performances or sports games. Once the ideas are finalized and Mrs. Shafer gives her approval, they begin to work on the logistics—arranging transportation, securing faculty supervision, and, of course, creating the email that will notify students of the weekend’s plan.
That email, while lighthearted on the surface, plays a central role in keeping students engaged. “It’s not just about listing the events,” Clara said. “It’s about making people read them.” Over time, the messages have developed into a tradition with a tone that evolves each year. While the content varies, the goal remains the same: encourage attendance and participation through accessibility and personality.
Still, their role extends beyond communication. It’s a position that demands time, responsibility, and flexibility. “It’s definitely a commitment,” Clara acknowledged. “Especially in the fall, when I had hockey every weekend off-campus. But what made it manageable was the group. Everyone steps up when someone’s away.”
The team is also responsive to feedback. If a trip doesn’t draw attendance, they replace it. If something like a chocolate fountain proves popular, they repeat it. “The student body really drives what we do,” she noted. “We listen to what people like.”
Reflecting on her experience, Clara emphasized how the position helped her feel more connected to Kent. “At first, I was nervous about working so closely with faculty, but Mrs. Shafer has been incredibly supportive. And I’ve grown a lot from working with others.”
Clara hopes the next group of Blue Key Heads continues to approach the role with energy and openness. “You can plan the most creative event, but it only works if people show up. You have to care—not just about the events, but about creating something that makes people want to be here.”
At its core, the work of the Blue Key Heads is about building a sense of presence, making sure that students who stay on campus each weekend have something to look forward to, and more importantly, a reason to feel part of the broader Kent community.
