As Rhinebeck hosted their annual induction ceremony on January 2nd 2026. Forty two inductees were included into the National program. The National Honors Society (NHS) is an organization that has been recognizing students who excel not only in the classroom, but also the community for over 100 years.
The NHS was founded in 1921 by Dr. Edward Rynearson with help from (NASSP) National Association of Secondary School principals. Dr. Rynearson envisioned an organization that would not only “ignite the flames of scholarship but also fan the sparks of service, leadership, and character in the young minds of our nation.” Some notable past NHS members include Hall of Fame inductee Cal Ripken Jr (MLB), Admiral of the U.S Navy Douglas Katz, Taylor Swift, and former President, Gerald R. Ford.
Today, there are over 16,000 chapters of NHS across all 50 states, and nearly 1.4 million members. The average NHS chapter contributes 1,000 hours of service in the school/ community, $26,000 in charitable donations, 100 pints of blood, and nearly 1,000 pounds of food to those in need. The impact of students exceeds their work in the classroom, and contributes to action and service in the community leaving a substantial impact.
National Honors society recognizes and values scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Millions of high schoolers globally are in the NHS making NHS one of the largest student organizations. The ceremony went smoothly as 4 senior members voiced each of the four principles and what they are. The four principles are scholarship, leadership, service, and character.
The President, Joslan Carter, and Vice President, Beatrice Macdonald, introduced each speaker and spoke about the NHS. President Joslan Carter reveals what to expect about the upcoming year for NHS: “The rest of the year, there are service events coming. In February there will be an event called Valentines for veterans, creating cards with fun designs, and for the rest of the year there will be more events. We are open for any feedback and suggestions going forward.” Brandon Martinez the secretary for NHS also adds that there will be “a lot of communicating of new events as there are a lot of new inductees.”
Furthermore Jennifer Nelson, English teacher here at Rhinebeck High School, and hallway monitor Pat Euell also said some wonderful words to welcome the new inductees. The event would not have been possible without the leadership of NHS Advisor and math teacher at RHS, Bobbie Bie. National Honors Society is an amazing academic program that provides many opportunities and it makes you feel appreciated, and seen for the work you have done in high school.
Sources: https://www.nationalhonorsociety.org/about/the-history-of-nhs/
