Dressed in Sto-Rox green and holding candles signifying the bright lights of their selection, Sto-Rox students were inducted Tuesday evening into the National Honor Society (NHS). A ceremony was held at Father Ryan Arts Center, where inductees and their families - nearly 100 people - enjoyed dinner and the induction ceremony. Current students sold carnations for Valentine’s Day to raise money for the event.
Sto-Rox inductees met requirements for induction across four areas: scholarship, leadership, character, and (community) service. For the first time in recent memory, Sto-Rox welcomed sophomores to become eligible for the National Honor Society. It had a dramatic impact: The Sto-Rox branch of the NHS welcomed nine new members to its four-member contingent.
“I was in your position one year ago. I know just how exciting it felt to be honored in this way,” said NHS President Shea Kelley. “I am still just as happy as I stand here today, to induct you all tonight. I know your families and classmates are all proud of you for this amazing achievement.
Students took center stage after brief remarks by School Counselor Joe Herzing, who helps spearhead the NHS at Sto-Rox. Kelley, Vice President Jaymes-Cameil Bulls, Treasurer Breona Griffin, and Secretary Kamron Bey, took turns introducing and inducting each of the nine new members. The audience also heard opening remarks from Jr./Sr. High School Science Teacher Jospeh Krajcovic and closing remarks from Jr./Sr. High School Math Teacher Maria Kotek.
“It’s great to see all the familiar and happy faces, families and community here. It’s really just a wonderful night and it’s nice that it’s growing,” said Krajcovic. “There is no growth without discomfort, and these people have endured, grown, and are shining examples of success. Our students and families truly are the strongest steel that comes from the hottest fires.”
National Honor Society is the nation’s oldest and largest student recognition program, and it started in Pittsburgh in 1921 at Fifth Avenue High School. These students join a prestigious legacy of rising to the top of their classes - and staying there - as Kotek pointed out in her closing remarks.
“Remember, this induction is not just a recognition of your past achievements, but a call to action for your future endeavors,” said Kotek. “You now bear the responsibility to uphold the standards of the National Honor Society, and to serve as beacons of inspiration for others in your community.”
Inductees were welcomed to the stage, one by one, to don their green robes and receive their National Honors Society sash and candle. After taking the National Honor Society pledge (below), they were fully inducted into the NHS. Congratulations to all of our new and current NHS members!
National Honor Society Pledge: I pledge myself to uphold the high purpose of the National Honor Society, for which I have been selected. I will be true to the principles for which it stands. I will be loyal to my school, and I will maintain and encourage high standards for scholarship, service, leadership and character.