The National Honor Society was established in 1921 as an organization that would support and encourage the development of lifelong learners who are empowered to make a difference in the world. Scholarship, Service, Leadership and Character are the four pillars at the heart of this institution.

Scholarship

Scholarship goes beyond the learning that takes place in a classroom or the number on a report card. Scholarship means a dedication and commitment to being a learner for life. It’s about optimizing the educational opportunities offered and pursuing knowledge within and beyond academic confines. Scholarship means a consistent effort, with an aspiration to contribute positively to the world through one’s own knowledge, skills, and experiences.

Service

Service represents the choice of stepping outside oneself to meet the needs of others, fueled by an unwavering passion for a cause, heartfelt empathy for others, or driven by personal circumstances. It’s about performing selfless acts that transcend the ordinary, engendering transformative changes that resonate through our schools and across our communities. In the noble act of service, we sculpt a better world with our hands, our hearts, and our humanity.

Leadership

Leadership is more than a position or title; it means embodying the spirit of initiative, innovation, and influence. It’s about inspiring peers through actions, nurturing a collaborative environment, and championing positive change. Student leaders embrace the responsibility of shaping their academic community, all while fostering personal growth and development. It’s an interplay of intellect, empathy, and resilience, guiding others while continually learning and evolving.

Character

Character is the essence of who we are. It is about valuing diversity, building relationships grounded in empathy, and exhibiting qualities like perseverance, respect, integrity, and honesty. Character lies not in public acts of virtue or visible mistakes, but in the consistent commitment to ethical and compassionate decision-making that positively affects both oneself and others.

Adapted from the National Honor Society website