Sullivan West inducts 21 into National Honor Society

By RICHARD A. ROSS

LAKE HUNTINGTON, NY — Illuminated by the brilliant light of knowledge and aglow with the attributes of scholarship, character, leadership and service, 21 new inductees were welcomed into the National Honor Society (NHS) at Sullivan West on March 27.

They joined the ranks of the school’s chapter of the prestigious organization that celebrates not just high marks, but outstanding character and citizenship as well.

Following a welcome by NHS adviser Patricia Hawker and an introduction of the new members by president Jessica Armstrong, those present partook of a dinner catered by Jill’s Kitchen. Then parents, faculty and students adjourned to the auditorium to witness the induction ceremony.

Following Laura Berger’s sonorous rendition of “The Star Bangled Banner,” Armstrong welcomed the audience and congratulated the new members for their outstanding achievements.

A moment of silence was held in honor of the passing of Specialist Anthony Kaiser, a 1998 graduate of the Narrowsburg School who gave his life for his country in Iraq the previous week.

Armstrong began the candle-lighting ceremony by lighting the Eternal Light of Knowledge. Students must maintain an 87.5 average to be inducted and retained in the NHS. Vice president Maegan Sauer lit the light of Scholarship, which she referred to as a commitment to learning. “Character guides us through life,” noted treasurer Ben Kleiner as he lit the next candle. “It is achieved, not received,” he added.

Secretary Laura Berger illuminated the candle signifying Service, which, she noted, can lead to a “better tomorrow,” and Armstrong concluded this portion of the ceremony by lighting the light of Leadership, an attribute that will always be needed.

Current members of the NHS introduced the new inductees and spoke affirmatively about their achievements and character. The following students were inducted into the NHS at Sullivan West: Justin Armstrong, Michelle Birney, Sarah Blanton, Jessica Brey, Sabrina Campfield, Rebecca Cutler Mitchell Ellmauer, Nicholas Gabriel, Melanie Kleiner, Jennifer Leon, Alexandra Lyon, Ella MacDonald, Bridgette Metzinger, Lindsey Murphy, Bridget O’Brien, Jennifer Pitz, Julianne Reggero, April Scardino, Dustin Schmidt, Kellee Thelman and Luke Tonjes.

On March 28, the National Honor Society sponsored a blood drive in memory of Scott Krantz.

For a photo album of the inductees, click here.