By: Molly Nelson '22
On March 31st, The Notre Dame School held their annual National Honor Society induction ceremony for the senior inductees. This is one of Notre Dame’s most momentous events of the year, as they introduce the new members to the Aquinas Chapter. The event served as a testament of their hard work and commitment to the four pillars of the National Honor Society - scholarship, leadership, service, and character. It was a memorable and special night for many at Chez Nous, especially as many events for the Class of 2022 had been altered or canceled due to COVID-19. When reflecting on the event, National Honor Society President Christina Valenti stated, “After lots of preparation, I am so glad that we finally got to have our induction to honor the seniors joining the National Honor Society this year! It was a great ceremony that everyone got to experience together before the ending of our senior year.”
In Junior year, these students were selected as Candidates for induction to the Aquinas Chapter of the National Honor Society. However, this did not automatically assume students a spot as a member of this prestigious organization. Throughout junior and senior year, students had to maintain a respectable grade point average, help organize school-wide National Honor Society sponsored events, volunteer in the school community, and continue to exhibit scholarship, leadership, service, and character.
The event began at around 5:30. There were hors d'oeuvres in the Commons, where everyone was able to socialize with friends and family. Many teachers were in attendance as well. After a while, the ceremony began in the beautifully set up Dolan Center with flowers and candles throughout. It was clear that Ms. Donose and the National Honor Society put in a great deal of time and preparation to make this event a success. The ceremony began with a welcome speech from Sister Virginia, the President of Notre Dame. Sister Virginia commended the inductees, reminding them to always carry on the values of the society even after they graduate. Following this was a speech from Chirstina Valenti, and the rites of commissioning, given by four inductees and E-Board members.
Next, the inductees recited the powerful pledge, and were presented with awards. A gold cord was given out, which the members will wear at the Notre Dame graduation at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in early June. Sister Mary gave a speech blessing the inductees, and then Alex Sperling presented the gifts – candles. In her speech, she stated “These candles are meant to symbolize us as we embark on our lives, carrying with us all we have learned in our time as part of the National Honor Society. There is a reason why each and every one of us was selected to be inducted today, our own individuality and admirable qualities shined bright enough for the selection committee to grant us this honor.”
As the event began to wrap up, Ms. Vargas, Notre Dame’s Principal, gave her congratulatory remarks. As one last hurrah, the inductees sang the Alma Mater. This was a bittersweet moment for many, but even though these seniors are graduating in only a few weeks, they will always be a part of Notre Dame, Chez Nous.
All photos courtesy of ND Instagram
Edited by: Adithi Vimalanathan '22 and Ms. Brilliant
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