The end of the semester is a busy time for most people as it includes lots of planning and chances to try out new things for the following academic year. This year, many students sent in applications for the National Honor Society, and a select few students were chosen for the coming school year.

The Society is a mark of achievement for students who value the culture of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These students will spend their time giving back to the community whether that be community service, holding events, or participating in leadership opportunities.

“I think my favorite part about NHS was being able to become more involved in the community,” senior and NHS president Keegan Hicswa said. “I was able to meet new people and foster new friendships through service and I think that is going to stick with me for a while.”

The association’s goal is to bridge the gap between students and school leaders while equipping them with transformative knowledge and skills. For reasons like these, being accepted is not only difficult but honorary.

“I was very excited to get accepted because it means I get to help out,” sophomore Bailee Allred said. “I’m looking forward to working with the upperclassmen and seeing what I can do to improve our school.”

A ceremony is held each year for new and old members to come and celebrate multiple achievements. The event also introduces the newly selected into the program by having a candle-lighting ceremony with, of course, free cookies at the end.

“It (ceremony) wasn’t what I expected,” sophomore Luci Dees said. “It was really cool to be able to see an age-old tradition that they do every year, and it made me feel proud that I got to be a part of it.”

There are special leadership positions in the club, including president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and historian. 

“I look forward to taking on leadership opportunities,” sophomore Neveah Garcia said. “I don’t normally tend to be a leader so I’m looking forward to taking on new roles and stepping out of my comfort zone.”

NHS is a wonderful organization with even better opportunities to allow students to exceed past their already grand remarks. The new members can gain many scholarships and valuable experiences only possible through the National Honor Society.

“I wish the best for the new members, existing members, and the program,” Hicswa said. “I would like to see more and more involvement as well as growth within the mindsets of members to further benefit the community and truly make a difference.”

The National Honor Society relies on the support of students and the community to achieve its goals, demonstrating a strong commitment to the well-being of the town and its residents. For the upcoming year, the new members will be a part of many fundraising events such as the blood drive, food drive, and Toys for Tots. They will also work concessions, do highway pick up, and sell candy roses during Valentine’s Day. 

“I’m super excited to be a part of NHS,” sophomore Audrey Johnson said. “I’m looking forward to learning how to better help my community and school through volunteering and other activities.”