The National Honor Society inducted 31 new members into the West Chicago Community High School chapter during a ceremony in the small gym this past Sunday, Sept. 21.
Families and friends arrived early, snapping photos of students dressed in formal attire as they celebrated the accomplishment that came after years of hard work and dedication. The National Honor Society is a nationwide organization that recognizes outstanding high school students for achievements they make in four areas: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Applicants must meet high standards, including maintaining at least a 4.5 GPA, to be considered for induction.
“I hope inducted members understood the meaning of character, leadership, scholarship, and service, which are the four pillars that shape NHS,” senior Lesley Garcia, NHS President, said. “We had four different colored flowers to signify the different pillars which each inductee took home. The goal is for the significance of that flower to continue to grow within them and our community.”
After receiving their certificates, which were given out by Leslie Fireman, the NHS adviser at WEGO, the members joined their families for a reception that included cookies.
“The fall 2025 induction was very successful! New members were inducted Sunday night with cupcakes and cookies to celebrate. Many got right to work the following day by volunteering to help an NHS Committee. It’s very encouraging to see incoming members take charge right away,” Garcia said.
NHS usually holds its induction event one night a year – in the fall – but starting in 2026, the ceremony will be held in the spring due to better scheduling with end of the year awards. The location is still unknown as the event’s original location was set to the LRC, but due to the amount of attendees, it was moved last-minute to the small gym. According to Fireman, the spring ceremony will most likely be held in the auditorium. Newly inducted members must complete a minimum of 10 hours of community service every semester to stay in good standing. Seniors who meet the requirements will receive special cords at graduation, along with recognition at Honors Night. Members are also expected to participate on a committee or initiate a personal leadership project.
“I am most looking forward to seeing how each committee will grow and watching members bring their unique talents together to create meaningful projects,” Cristal Salinas, NHS Vice President, said.
