USMS Welcomes New Members into National Junior Honor Society

On the evening of October 22, the Union Springs High School auditorium was filled with pride and excitement as the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) held its annual induction ceremony. The event celebrated the academic achievements and exemplary character of a new group of students who will carry on the legacy of service, leadership, and scholarship that defines the NJHS.

Principal Nora Haldeman opened the ceremony with a warm welcome, emphasizing the importance of the occasion and the hard work each student had demonstrated to earn their place in the prestigious organization. NJHS Co-Advisor Rachael Hoadley followed with an explanation of the rigorous selection criteria, highlighting the society’s core values that guide the induction process.

NJHS Co-Advisor Holly Coppola then took the stage to introduce and recognize the current NJHS members for the 2023-24 school year. She applauded their dedication to both academics and service within the community.

NJHS President Kora Alcock gave a heartfelt speech on the significance of the NJHS, noting how being a part of the society fosters a deeper sense of responsibility to both personal growth and community involvement.

The Four Pillars of NJHS—service, scholarship, leadership, and character—were then brought to life by the current NJHS officers. Treasurer Samuel Patterson spoke on the pillar of service, illuminating the red candle to represent its importance. Secretary Julia Mainville reflected on the meaning of scholarship, lighting the green candle. Vice President Ella Cuff addressed the role of leadership, lighting the blue candle, and Historian Alexander VanHouten concluded with an insightful speech on character, lighting the white candle to symbolize its lasting significance.

One of the night’s highlights was the tapping ceremony, during which new NJHS members were formally recognized. Principal Haldeman and Co-Advisors Hoadley and Coppola presented certificates to the following inductees: Lalena Anderson, Grace Baliva, Isabella Church, Emelia Gonzalez, Jackson Minturn, Giuliana Pedley, Carter Smith, Gina Suslik, Addison Warren, Caroline Zabriskie, and Natalie Zirbel.

In a solemn and inspiring moment, the newly inducted members stood together, raised their right hands, and recited the NJHS pledge, vowing to uphold the high standards of the organization.

These new members join the current NJHS members of the Frontenac Chapter, including Kora Alcock, Claire Baliva, Ella Cuff, Stephani Diaz Cabrera, Alexia Jackson, Julia Mainville, Maya McLean, Matthew Norton, Samuel Patterson, Alexander VanHouten, and Lucas Walawender.

The ceremony ended with a sense of excitement for the future as the newest members of the National Junior Honor Society prepare to contribute to their school and community through service, leadership, and academic excellence. Congratulations to all the inductees for their hard-earned achievement!

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