Awards

Honor bound

Sullivan West inducts 37 into National Honor Society

By RICHARD A. ROSS

LAKE HUNTINGTON, NY — Pledging to maintain the high standards of character, scholarship, leadership and service that made them eligible for induction into Sullivan West Chapter of the National Honor Society, 37 new inductees holding their candles aloft, received their official entry into the prestigious society on March 31.

Prior to the delicious dinner served by Jill’s Kitchen in the school cafeteria, students, faculty and guests were welcomed by adviser Patricia Hawker and vice president Julianne Reggero.

At the awards ceremony, following a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by Jennifer Leon, president Ella MacDonald spoke briefly about the role of the National Honor Society, the five hours of community service donated by each of its members; the fundraising done through the talent show, dodgeball and sale of shamrocks by seniors; and efforts to assist the homeless shelter in Monticello.

Reggero lit the Eternal Light of Scholarship. She noted that “scholarship is a commitment to learning.” She added that education is a lifelong endeavor. Treasurer Michael Sandler lit the light of character. “Character is achieved, not received,” he said. Secretary Mitchell Ellmauer lit the light of Service. “It’s a willingness to work without monetary compensation or recognition,” he said.

MacDonald lit the light of service. “The price of leadership is sacrifice, the willingness to give up one’s personal interests to guide others,” she said.

Current members of the National Honor Society introduced new members one by one, elucidating their activities and most salient qualities.

New members this year include Autumn Ackermann, Ruby Wheaton, Ryan Alsdorf, Lindsey Bauer, Drew Billard, Katherine Bunch, Derrick Clark, Melinda Cook-Sykes, Christopher Ellison, Jacqueline Ellmauer, Rianne Erlwein, Megan Everitt, Jillian Fife, Katerina Gaebel, Maya Grady, Shelby Grishaber, Jacqueline Parsons, Sierra Holik, Gabrielle Humleker, Sommer Johansen, Andrew Kinch, Lynnette Lacek, Irene LaGrutta, Alexander Manzi, Jeanna Michel, Mark Michel, Jamie Moran, James O’Connor, Madeline Paciga, Stephany Robison, Samantha Sedlack, Courtney Sipple, Kayla Stoutenberg-Kracke, Kaitlyn Smith, Nora Yeleki, Justin Zaccari and Alex Lander.

New members were sworn in by high school principal Margaret Tenbus.

Visit riverreporter.com for an album of photos of this year’s inductees.