It was a proud night for the best and the brightest of Freeport High School, as students and their parents came together to celebrate the induction of 82 new members to the National Honor Society. Current members welcomed the inductees with a thoughtful ceremony that invoked the symbolism of the four pillars of the NHS - scholarship, leadership, character and service.
"These four qualities of membership are the four pillars of every society," said Superintendent Dr. Kishore Kuncham in his address. "What you have accomplished to bring you here tonight did not happen overnight. It happened because of the hard work, sacrifices and good choices that you make every day. Each of these characteristics shows the sum of the decisions you have made over the course of many years. Continue to strive toward even loftier goals in the years ahead."
The ceremony began with the presentation of the colors, performed by the NJROTC Color Guard, as NHS officer Wilsa Albert led the participants in the Pledge of Allegiance. NHS adviser Eileen Shultis made the introductions, beginning with a roll call of current members, who all stood as their names were called.
"We honor the 82 new inductees not only for their academic excellence, but also for the efforts they have put forth in the areas of service, leadership and character," said Ms. Shultis. "These young men and women will be inducted into an organization that reflects the best that Freeport High School has to offer. We present them to you with pride and congratulate them on this accomplishment."
NHS President Elizabeth Mulé introduced her fellow officers, who presided with her over a candle-lighting ceremony, highlighting each of the four pillars of the NHS.
"You are all standing here tonight because you have earned the right to become members of a nationally recognized group of elite students," said Ms. Mulé to the inductees. "You are among the leaders of tomorrow."
As names were called, inductees crossed the stage to receive their NHS medals. At the conclusion of the ceremony, new and old members came together on the stage to recite the NHS pledge before joining their families for refreshments and photos to commemorate this proud moment.
