Carey High School honored its most distinguished and respected students by inducting them into the National Honor Society at a beautiful and touching ceremony recently. The school auditorium was filled with the proud parents, teachers and friends of the inductees. Among the NHS members inducted were Justin Cohen, Mickey Parris, Kimberly Magnuson, Stephanie Curraro, Eric Van Keuren, Melanie Cardenas, Matt Baker, Diana Gering, Frank Savinon, Christopher Cassa and Matthew Baker.

Marie Ingrisano started the event with a beautiful rendition of the national anthem. NHS President Becky McKay then welcomed the audience, followed by our esteemed principal, Thomas Dolan. Mr. Dolan spoke about what being an NHS member really means. Although he lost some of us with his psychological rhetoric, Mr. Dolan described a NHS member to us. He said, "You have, for lack of a better word, honor." The hard work and skill needed to become an NHS member certainly is honorable.

NHS advisor Gavin Schwen then filled the audience in on what the NHS priorities were. He spoke about the morning tutoring that each member must attend at least once, and the charities that will profit from the NHS's efforts. During Mr. Dolan's speech, he said something that he had heard from Mr. Schwen. "I don't know if they realize how much they've accomplished." Some of us do.

Miss McKay then introduced the three student speakers with a speech of her own. Gabrielle Urban gave a speech on scholarship, Teanna DiMicco on service, and Anthony Burdi on leadership and character. After their speeches, each lighted a candle representing their attribute. These four qualities are found in all the NHS members.

The inductees then lined up on stage, where they each held a candle, lighted by the officers. Here, Miss McKay led the inductees in the NHS pledge: "I pledge myself to uphold the high purposes of the National Honor Society to which I have been selected, striving in every way by word and deed to make its ideals the ideals of my school and of my life." Mr. Dolan and Mr. Schwen then distributed the certificates.

Every year the NHS honors a Teacher of the Year and this time we voted unanimously for Carey English teacher Jeryl Inglima. She was an inspiration, being there whenever we needed someone to help us. Some lucky students were blessed with her class twice. Miss McKay gave a well-deserved introduction to the fine English teacher. Ms. Inglima then accepted her award and addressed the audience, including her families inside of Carey and outside. She used her extensive vocabulary and wove her way into the hearts and minds of the inductees forever. She said, "I am so proud of each of you. You have demonstrated compassion, loyalty, kindness and that's made me feel so much love for you." We love you too, Ms. Inglima.

After Ms. Inglima accepted her recognition, all were invited to the cafeteria for a social reception. The National Honor Society inductions are a great way to honor the students who have done what is required, and beyond.