After putting in a great deal of hard work and effort, National English Honors Society members were finally inducted with a ceremony on Thursday, December 8. There were a total of nine students: Isabella Alberti, Anna Carpinelli, Lily Deur, Grace Griffin, Jasmine Joseph, Patricia Keating, Melania Petriccione, Rachel Thomas and Abbie Varco. This small amount makes it clear that getting inducted is far from easy. Students must publish pieces of writing on a local, regional and national level in addition to a 15 hour literacy outreach project in order to be considered. 

 

The ceremony began with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by club secretary, Khorey Zheng. The ceremony then continued with words from Mr. D’Ippolito, club supervisor. Guest speaker, Dr. Laterza spoke on the importance of English in everyday life and how it can be used to achieve major life goals. Having taught each student personally, he was able to connect with students throughout his speech. 

 

Then, the club’s president and co-president, Sophia Pintavalle and Alejandro Gomez, took turns reading short blurbs about each inductee, stating the students' reason for wanting to be inducted, as well as why they were worthy of the title. It was a good opportunity for students to reflect on all of their accomplishments, in addition to being recognized for their hard work. 

 

Representatives from 9th, 10th and 11th grade each lit a candle as well as read a mission statement to tribute the inductees. The ceremony ended with all inductees committing to the honor and purpose of the National English Honor Society with an “I do.” 

 

After the ceremony concluded, students were congratulated and were proud of themselves. Junior Patricia Keating, said,  “Joining a community of people who share a love for literature is a great honor.” 

 

A fellow inductee, Abbie Varco, had a similar reply, sharing, “It was an incredible honor to be inducted into NEHS.” 

 

Clearly, inductees know the value of hard work and what it means to be recognized on a national level for their achievements.