In late January and early February, LHS recognized student achievement across multiple disciplines through a series of honor society induction ceremonies. The National Art Honor Society (NAHS) celebrated its newest members on Thursday, Jan. 29. Students were inducted into both the Mu Alpha Theta (Math National Honor Society) and the Science National Honor Society on Thursday, Feb. 12. Families, faculty members, and administrators gathered in the auditorium on both evenings to honor the dedication and accomplishments of these students.
The Feb.12 ceremony began with the Math National Honor Society, also known as Mu Alpha Theta. Following opening remarks from Principal Matthew Sarosy, the focus shifted to recognizing students who have demonstrated consistent excellence in mathematics. Under the guidance of math teacher and advisor Maria Mantikas, along with the student executive board, the ceremony was carefully organized to reflect the organization’s prestige. To qualify, students must have successfully completed Algebra I, geometry, and Algebra II, and either be enrolled in or have finished a fourth year of college-preparatory math. In addition, candidates are required to maintain at least a 93 cumulative average across all math courses.
Math National Honor Society Co-President Charles Horton commented, “It was really nice seeing everyone finally get inducted. A lot of us know how stressful those classes can be, so it’s cool to see it pay off. We tried to keep the ceremony simple but meaningful. I’m just excited to have new members who actually care and want to be involved.”
After each inductee crossed the stage to receive a certificate, the program transitioned into the Science National Honor Society portion of the evening. Science teacher and Department Chairperson Charles Vessalico, working closely with the student board, coordinated this segment of the ceremony. Months of preparation ensured that eligible students had the opportunity to apply and be considered. To earn membership, students must complete earth science, living environment, and chemistry classes with a minimum overall science average of 93. As with the math inductees, each new science member was formally recognized and presented with a certificate. The ceremony concluded with all inductees reciting a pledge, affirming their commitment to continued excellence and integrity in their respective academic fields.
Newly inducted science member Camila Montano commented, “Science classes can be a lot sometimes, especially balancing labs and tests, so being inducted makes it feel worth it. I’m excited to actually be part of it now and see what we end up doing this year.”
Two weeks earlier, on Jan. 29, the spotlight was on artistic achievement during the National Art Honor Society induction. The NAHS event blended recognition with creative expression. Each piece of artwork reflected something deeply personal, whether a meaningful place, a cherished memory, or an influential relationship, allowing students to visually communicate what matters most to them.
Art teacher and advisor Michael Kunz, alongside the NAHS board, selected the theme and guided students through the preparation process. Membership requirements for NAHS are both academic and artistic. Students in grades 10 through 12 must complete at least one semester of art in high school, including Drawing and Painting I. They are also expected to maintain a minimum average of 90 in Studio Drawing and Painting or their most recent advanced art course, as well as an overall academic average of 80 or higher. Each year, applicants must submit a portfolio piece that adheres to specific guidelines in order to be considered.
During the ceremony, images of each inductee’s artwork were projected on the screen as students walked across the stage to accept their certificates. The visual display allowed the audience to experience the individuality and creativity behind every piece. Following the induction, guests were invited to a small reception in the cafeteria, and the artwork was later made available for public viewing in the Bern Seiderman Gallery.
“You could tell how much time people put into their pieces,” President Payton Stalter, a senior, reflected. “I liked that the theme let everyone share something personal. It didn’t feel forced or overly formal,” added Stalter.
Together, these three ceremonies highlighted the diverse talents within LHS. Whether through complex equations, scientific inquiry, or creative design, the newly inducted members demonstrated perseverance, discipline, and passion in their chosen areas. The induction ceremonies not only honored academic and artistic distinction but also reinforced the school’s commitment to celebrating excellence in all its forms.
