Chester Academy welcomes newest members of National Honor Society

18 students proudly stood on stage and passed the flame from one candle to another, signifying their induction into the National Honor Society. Cheers and applause filled the auditorium at Chester Academy as proud family members and loved ones witnessed the monumental moment. Check out photos from the ceremony here! 

National Honor Society is one of the oldest, largest, and most widely recognized student organizations in the United States. The purpose of the program is to promote leadership and develop character in students. The Chester Academy chapter has been inducting members since 1987.

There are several credentials for students when they apply to join the chapter. Students must have an average of 90 or above, as well as participate in sports or extracurricular activities, to help show their character and community compassion.

“A panel of teachers go over the applications,” said advisor and school social worker Tyra Busigo. “What they're really looking for is that the students are volunteering or giving back to their community. They're looking at their character, they're looking at potential leadership skills.”

The ceremony started off with inductees and returning members making their way down the aisles as the Chester Academy band played them in. Once students were settled into their sets, seniors Brooke Battiato and Shayne Rivera recited the “Pledge of Allegiance" before senior Yamilet Lopez-Cortez sang “God Bless America,” kicking off the ceremony on a melodic note. 

Principal of Chester Academy, John Flanagan, then addressed the crowd. He discussed the prestigious honor of being in the National Honor Society and the hard work that is done to earn this recognition.

“Today we celebrate the accomplishments of our outstanding students,” Mr. Flanagan said. “Being a member of the National Honor Society is an honor and a privilege. On behalf of our faculty, staff and administrators, a big thank you to the National Honor Society, for establishing such high standards and serving as role models in our school and community.”

The ceremony continued with the returning members taking the podium to talk about the characteristics inductees possess. Four students discussed qualities such as scholarship and leadership, before lighting a candle that represented these traits.

Keynote speaker, Social Studies teacher Ryan Stover, then stood at the podium to address the inductees. He spoke about the four pillars that make up the National Honor Society, comparing each trait to famous historical figures, such as Jeremy Bentham. 

“Leadership is about using your influence to lift up people, not stand above them,” Mr. Stover said. “True leaders measure success by how many they guide and inspire, not by self-promotion and grandstanding service. But really, the heart of Bentham's message is rooted in the idea that our actions should bring joy, comfort and relief to those around us.”

Then, new members went to center stage in pairs, as returning members swore them in, tapping them on the shoulder to signify their induction. The ceremony concluded with new members taking an oath and Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Communication, Dayanara Garcia, sharing a poem with the audience.