National Honor Society sponsor Missy Henderson and club officers Janet Lu, Pooja Shah, Kathryn Carrick were joined by Principal Rick Fleming and guest speakers, Mayor Hal Rose and Juliette Adams in a ceremony to induct scores of students into the National Honors Society on Oct.24. The ceremony, held in the auditorium, included the club’s annual candle lighting ceremony, guest speakers, the student pledge and student certificates. .

“We have 75 students being inducted, which is very close to a record,” Henderson said. “I think that is really exciting.”

The service organization, which represents the largest group on campus, places an emphasis on its induction ceremony.

“I most definitely think NHS inductions in particular are one of the most important ceremonies we do here at West Shore,” Henderson said. “Kids get really upset and so do parents when they can’t make it because it’s such a privilege to be part of it.”

Sophomore Katie Perez appeared excited about the inductions.

“It was an honor and my parents wanted to be there to see me be inducted,” she said.

But sophomore Ella McMullin downplayed the event.

“All we were doing was getting a piece of paper,” she said.

Although some inductees couldn’t make it or didn’t want to attend, Perez deemed the event a success.

“My favorite part of the night was probably the cake and lemonade after,” Perez said. “I also really enjoyed walking across the stage and getting my certificate.”

NHS serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership and character by challenging its members to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service for each month members participate in a service activity which for October will be crafting goody bags for kids who are in the hospital.

“I’m excited to be a member because I know this will benefit me in years to come especially for college,” Perez said. “I know it’s an honor to be in the club.”

By Sierra Vehec