52 students received induction into the National Honor Society as the Camden High School Chapter held its annual ceremony on Tuesday, November 18th in the CHS Auditorium.
A large crowd of family and friends looked on as 44 juniors and eight seniors reached one of the most significant milestones a high school student can achieve in the United States. Membership is granted to high achieving juniors and seniors who demonstrate academic excellence while also being well-rounded citizens in their school and community. The newcomers join a roster of 25 returning seniors to make up a roster of 77 members.
To join, a student must demonstrate a commitment to the NHS values of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. They must carry a cumulative weighted average of 90 or above in the classroom, have a track record of community service, be a part of their school community through extracurricular activities, and demonstrate strong character. Inductees are selected by a faculty committee, who must be confident that each successful applicant can uphold the standard set by their predecessors.
Throughout the year, the group will complete community service projects, demonstrate leadership daily at school, and participate in enriching activities such as the annual NHS trip.
The evening’s program was led by Chapter President Isabella Keller, and Chapter Vice President Abigail Miller. Highlights of the evening included the presentation of inductees, the traditional NHS candle ceremony, and keynote remarks by Principal Aaron Fiorini, who emphasized the work is just beginning for this group.
“You are already on a path to making meaningful contributions - not only to your school and community, but to the world,” he said. “You carry the potential to inspire change. You carry the potential to lead with compassion, and to leave a legacy that future Camden High School students will look up to. Make your teachers proud. Make your families proud. And above all, make yourself proud.”
For the twentieth time, the Society also elected to induct an honorary adult member. An honorary adult membership can be granted by student members to an adult member of the school community who has had an especially significant influence on their educational pursuits, and on their lives as students.
For this year’s recognition, the senior members reached back to the very beginning of their High School careers to salute someone that helped set the tone for their time at CHS. Former CHS English teacher Connor Downing is this year’s recipient. Although he is now in his third year teaching at nearby Westmoreland, his past contributions to Camden students were top of mind for the NHS membership - and this was a fitting way to thank him.
“Mr. Downing fostered an environment that inspired all students to feel comfortable and want to engage in what they were doing, whether it be in English class or in Broadcast Journalism,” Chapter Treasurer Ella Winters said. “His room was a safe space for all students, and it wasn't uncommon for kids to hang out in his room just to talk and get advice. His kindness, positive attitude, and cheerful disposition made him the leading contender for this distinction.”
Downing admitted he was at a crossroads when deciding how to address a group he hadn’t taught in years, especially a group that has achieved so much. He reminded students that amidst all their achievements, a focus on balance and humanity will take them even further.
“If you can learn to laugh at yourself, you’ll never cease to be amused,” he said. “After all, isn’t laughter the best part of being human? You’re being recognized for accomplishing great things. Many of you will go on to attend prestigious colleges and universities, and go on to have fulfilling careers. The world is, and will continue to be a better place for you having been in it. But also, be someone’s reason to laugh today. Be someone’s reason to be okay today.”
Congratulations to the following new members!
Seniors
Sydney Arno
Abigail Arnold
Astro Johnson
Peyton Kelley
Sora Kiedrowski
Samantha MacMurray
Tyler Perkins
Pietra Van der Werff
Juniors:
Matthew Albrecht
Justin Allen
Reagan Arnold
Kelsi Barok
Madelyn Blair
Ashlyn Brockway
Colton Brown
Leila Cadrette
Brenden Chennells
Ford Church
Connor Collins
Mikinzie Collins
Elizabeth Conover
Caleb Doran
Luke Eveleth
Maggie Flatt
Cayden Folnsbee
Emily Fox
Anna Gilsenan
Emily Gilsenan
Ian Halbritter
Chase Herper
Alyssa Howe
Madelyn Johns
Tristan Keever
Noah Kelley
Ariana Killino
Ellie Miller
Lola Miller
Ellianna Pitcher
Khloe Poulin
Mallory Reader
Katherine Redden
Bryson Roes
Landry Rose
Kenneth Sessler
Amber Shenk
Kinley Snyder
Lynzee Szczesniak
Brooklyn Waterman
Shawn Whowell Jr.
Peyton Wickham
Rylee Willson
Olivia Wing
