Excitement was in the air as the hushed crowd waited for the Homecoming King and Queen to be announced. Once Ronin Chaney and Jada West were elected, the crowd erupted and classmates began to jump around and congratulate them from the stands, smiles across faces up and down the bleachers. These winners’ innovative campaign tactics and involvement in extracurriculars contributed to their victory. Together, their stories show determination and enthusiastic outreach playing a role in the spirit of Homecoming, leaving memories they will cherish forever.
Chaney revealed that he initially didn’t want to run because he was sure he would lose. “I thought I looked really ridiculous and was starting to doubt myself. Then, when I heard my name when I won, I was just surprised. I thought I would lose because first of all, I’m not in any sports and second of all Duro and Enrique, the other contestants, had a lot of backers, and also I didn’t dress for the first two days of spirit week.” reflects Chaney.
West, on the other hand, was confident she would win due to her campaign efforts and Texan spirit. But, she felt self-conscious in the crucial moments. “Of course there was a moment where my legs went a little wobbly on the field, but when I heard my name called I was relieved,” West admits with a laugh. Chaney’s and West’s remarks on their victories show how a lighthearted competition can make for a royal adventure and even learning experience!
Their candid insights reveal not just their unique campaigning strategies, but also what’s helped make this year special so far. With the encouragement of his friend and campaign “manager,” Tristan, Chaney launched a light-hearted Instagram account, @ronin4king, posting humorous self-promotion edits and staged interview videos with the Lamar community. “That’s what I do [for fun anyway],” says Chaney about his funny and interpretive videos. Taking an amusing approach to winning backers helped him feel more normalized and less like a campaign leader. Chaney liked putting jokes in each video because it would bring smiles to people’s faces, and his Minecraft-themed posters allowed him to show his personality to others in his grade.
West chose to approach her campaign with determination and use her experience as a wrestling captain to her advantage. West’s outgoing personality and strong community ties helped her rally support and spread the word about her campaign. “Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or lose,” says West. She was committed to creating an inclusive atmosphere at Lamar and others noticed. “I voted for West because she’s a social butterfly and knows how to connect well with others and respect anyone she comes across,” says Cameron Foley.
Both candidates faced challenges and doubts but overcame them through their dedication and support from friends. It was amazing to see as the strived and grew as leaders with Chaney’s optimistic attitude and Wests outgoing school spirit. I think Chaney’s drive for the crown was fueled mostly by his want to show who he is as a person and student to his friends and community. The stories of Chaney and West illustrate the power of determination, authenticity, and community support. Their experiences during the campaign and their extracurricular activities at Lamar not only led them to victory but also taught them that school can be more than just a place to learn but also to harbor good connections. Chaney’s interactive and creative approach to campaigning and West’s inclusive leadership skills demonstrate the impact of individuality in achieving success. Their journeys serve as an motivation for embracing one’s unique talents, persevering through challenges, and fostering genuine connections within the community around you. Celebrating Chaney and West as the new homecoming king and queen was surely a satisfying experience and proud moment for the class of 25’.
