Facemasks, social distancing, and the absence of handshakes were a few unusual hallmarks of this year’s National Honor Society induction at Michigan City High School. But masks and a smaller crowd didn’t dampen the pride and enthusiasm of family and friends who attended the March 16 ceremony honoring 48 outstanding MCHS juniors and seniors for their academic excellence and leadership.
The event featured remarks from Michigan City Area Schools Superintendent Dr. Barbara Eason-Watkins, MCHS Interim Principal Julie Fregien, and NHS sponsor Judy Kovalcik.
“I am extremely proud of each of you for your accomplishments and commitment to your school and community,” said Eason-Watkins. “This has been a challenging year in so many ways. However, you remained focused and met the requirements for this prestigious recognition. Our future is truly in good hands!”
NHS President Michael Lakin, Vice President Anastasia Attar, Historian and Chapter Liaison Jada Majied, and Treasurer Delaina Adams served as student speakers during the event, addressing the four pillars of NHS: scholarship, service, character, and leadership.
Lakin told the inductees that good grades and test scores do not truly define a scholar. “A scholar is someone who wants to learn and to understand,” he said. “Scholarship is the appreciation of knowledge.”
Attar emphasized the personal growth that could be realized through service to others. “Remember who you want to be,” she said. “Your fellow community members will remember your service.”
Majid urged students to consider character rather than reputation. “Character is the pillar that comes from your heart and your soul,” she said.
In speaking about leadership, Adams challenged inductees to consider the impact their actions could have on rallying others to achieve larger goals. “It’s the essence of leadership to influence both those around us at school and in our community,” she said.
The National Honor Society is celebrating its centennial as a national organization this year. The MCHS Chapter was first established in 1927 at what was then Michigan City High School -- a building that later became Elston High School. The present MCHS National Honor Society chapter celebrated its 26th annual induction on Tuesday, joining more than 12,500 high schools nationwide with chapters.