The National Honor Society, an organization that recognizes exceptional high schoolers and helps high schoolers prepare for college, held its induction ceremony for new members on Monday, October 14, 2022 in the theater. 47 new students got inducted into the National Honor Society.
Ms.Ongna, who is the head of NHS, said, “I think this has got to be some kind of record! These 47 new members join our 18 current members who were inducted in the spring of 2021.” In order for these new students to get inducted into the National Honor Society and continue to be a part of it, they have to abide by the four pillars of NHS which are Scholarship , Leadership, Service and Character.
For scholarship, students must have a cumulative GPA of 85, B, 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent standard of excellence.
For leadership, students must engage in leadership experiences from school or community activities while working with or for others. Service involves voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation.
Finally, a student of good character is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others; and generally maintains a clean disciplinary record. NHS has many benefits, such as access to scholarships, education opportunities and ways to engage with colleges early. Every year, the National Honor Society offers a number of scholarships to exceptional students who are among its membership. “In fact, since 1946, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) has awarded more than $21 million in scholarships to outstanding NHS seniors.”
The induction ceremony was hosted by Ms.Ongna, and it lasted from about 6:30 to 7:30 PM. During the ceremony, all of the new inductees gathered in the theater and waited as their names were called to walk across the stage and collect their certification, solidifying their role in the National Honor Society.
As students walked across the stand, each student received an individual comment from a teacher that highlighted the strengths and abilities of each student.
Ms.Ongna added, “In my opinion, the Induction Ceremony went really smoothly! Most of the inductees attended a run through rehearsal earlier in the morning, which I think really helped them know what to expect and what their roles would be. Also, the officer team was amazing! They all played a huge part in the evening’s success, from Johanna and Greta’s introduction, to the Candle Lighting Ceremony, to Maddy’s concluding remarks. I give them a ton of credit for speaking bravely and eloquently in front of their peers and their families.”
After the induction ceremony, families, friends and students gathered on the 19th floor to enjoy refreshments and chat with teachers.
Jotham Kriakos, an 11th grade NHS Inductee, said of the event, “Overall, I enjoyed it. It was a very simple yet formal ceremony that I felt did a great job welcoming the new inductees. My favorite part was the quotes and comments from all the teachers that were personalized for each inductee. It truly made the induction ceremony unique for each student and to me was very sentimental and a kind gesture.”
Additionally, Denise Sargeant, a Léman parent, agreed with the positivity of the event as she said, “Monday was very inspirational, very heartfelt and encouraging to see the young people pursuing greatness.”
The NHS is a great opportunity for juniors and seniors.