Tomorrow's NHS leaders step forward

Halley Ogan, Alexis Ferguson, Hope Kriegel and Paige Watson light their candles after being announced as new initiates into the National Honor Society. (Alexa Wheaton photo)

by Rachel Ranfeld

Wednesday, April 20, the National Honor Society held its annual induction ceremony. During the service, Alex Peck and Katurah McKee presented Kaylin Hansen, Nathan Wheeler, Stephen Vavroch, Austin Battreall, Aly James and Natalie Wheeler with their junior membership cards. New initiates include Hope Kriegel, Paige Watson, Bryan Stanford, Corbin Tompkins, Alexis Ferguson, Rachel Ranfeld, Halley Ogan, Tyler Swenson and Norman Martin. 

This year, Allison Pargeon took over as advisor with a few changes to the NHS mannerisms. The original qualifications and the faculty’s nominations still apply, such as sophomores had to have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher to be eligible; juniors and seniors needed a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher.

Before the ceremony, each eligible student wanting to be considered for membership was required to fill out an online application for the school faculty to analyze when deciding who made the cut. This application was divided into five categories, which asked the students to explain how they each exemplified characteristics of service, leadership, character and citizenship. 

Scholarship was the criteria that made the students eligible to fill out the application. This maintenance of a healthy GPA shows that each student shares a commitment to learning – that they like to learn and recognize new knowledge is essential to a successful life.

Service is the willingness and work done to help others through genuine altruism. It shows the commitment of volunteering for the idea of a better tomorrow.

Leadership is a sacrifice portrayed by a show of self-confidence when others hesitate to step up and take the lead. A leader is always needed in life to guide people in enhancing any situation.

Character is a collection of the qualities: morality, ethics, cooperativeness, honesty, reliability, trustworthiness, courtesy, equality, concern, respect and citizenship. Basically, a person of good character upholds a respectful and clean lifestyle that would be a good role model for any student.

Citizenship is a demonstration of responsibility and mature participation through community organizations and school clubs. This shows an understanding of the importance of civil involvement, democracy, freedom and justice.