Opening night. The National Honor Society (NHS) is a national organization established to give recognition to outstanding high school students. Outside of academics, NHS serves to spotlight students who have shone in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. These “pillars of excellence” define those students who have proved themselves in those fields. (All photos courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography)

Listen up. President of NHS, senior Justin Banke, speaks in front of the audience during the induction ceremony. “My role as president of NHS has been a very beneficial experience so far. I have gained exposure by being a leader and a communicator,” said Banke.

Let the ceremony begin.“It is fun to get to work with teachers and other leaders in the school in order to get things accomplished. With the help of some senior volunteers, our induction ceremony went very smoothly,” said Banke. The members of the committee were selected by students to the positions they hold.

Time to inspire. Principal Doug Mader addresses the crowd during the induction ceremony. The inductees are acknowledged for their hard work in academics and service to the community. The entire ceremony typically lasts around two hours.

Take time to smell the roses. Each inductee is presented with a rose as they walk on stage to give a short speech. They then give the rose to their sponsor they referenced in their speech. The sponsor is someone who has inspired or influenced them in some way.