The Annual Introduction Ceremony of the Alpha Chapter of the National Honor Society held in the Abington High School auditorium on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. is where 36 were inducted. This year is one of the largest groups of students in a single class to be accepted into NHS. The advisors Mrs. Kimberly McHugh and Mr. Jason Scott, as well as current NHS senior members, welcomed new members being inducted.

The auditorium was filled with proud parents, supportive siblings, and other friends and family present to congratulate these students on their achievements. This was a formal event, so everyone dressed nicely for the occasion.

So what does it mean to be on National Honor Society?

In an interview before the ceremony,Ways and Means officer Erielle Amboy said, “You can’t be afraid to take a risk and make a change.”  Vice President Lauren Keleher said, “Anything that I can do to better someone else’s day, betters my own.” And the President Kirstyn Deschamps believes to be of service to others means believing in your own worth, too. “Be confident in yourself, and help people. That’s what we are all about,” she said.

Other Officers like Secretary Ailey Riddick believes “It is a great opportunity for volunteer work. It is a very humbling experiencing. And what you put into it is what you get out of it,” while Treasurer Colby Augusta noted how his family’s support helped him fulfill his role in NHS. “My mom used to drive me to every event where I volunteered.”

At last night’s event, the NHS Class officers started off the evening by presenting the four pillars that every member strives to follow: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. Music played while the officers and current members of NHS were announced. After the current members were seated in the audience, the inductees were declared and sat on the stage and recited their pledge to NHS.

After the induction, the principal Dr. Sullivan introduced the Keynote speaker of the night, history teacher and athletic director Mr. Peter Serino. Mr. Serino’s words touched the students of NHS as well as the audience seated before him. While concluding his speech he said, “The words you heard tonight did not come from me, but the people that molded me into who I am today.”

Mr. Serino’s speech was implying that nobody can accomplish anything alone. He was stating that the reason people can achieve great things is because of how they were raised and taught to act at a young age. His speech was not only giving pride to the students receiving this award, but to the parents and family who have helped raise those students into who they are today.

Mr. Jason Scott then took the stage for closing remarks to commend the students on their personal triumphs. He also voiced his gratitude for all they have done for their community and for the hard work and dedication they put forth in everyday life.

After the induction and speeches, the members of NHS and their guests went to the cafeteria for their reception. However, before sitting with family and friends, the inductees formed a receiving line where every guest acknowledged the new members of NHS

During the reception, Mrs. Kimberly McHugh said, “I am so excited how this membership has grown, we have many new service opportunities on the way.” After the receiving line, it was time for dessert and celebrating the occasion.

Because “leaders eat last,” the NHS members hosting the evening did not eat until all the guests were served. This showed the character of the members.