Submitted Photo Thirteen students in 11th grade at the Silver Creek Central School District were feted during National Honor Society induction ceremonies recently in the district auditorium. Front, left to right: Jonathan Pulver, Ryan Rocque, Zachary Rybak, Krystel Schwab and Briget Whipple. Middle, left to right: Sean Marchant, Lauren Grover, Taylor Farley and Alex Bogosian. Standing, left to right: Mckayla Polowy, Jonathan McDaneld, Emma Pryll, Kennedy Parks and Cassandra Pillard.

SILVER CREEK — Thirteen juniors joined the ranks of the National Honor Society recently at the Silver Creek Central School District in two poignant ceremonies in the auditorium attended by classmates, faculty, family and friends. The morning ceremony was geared toward the student body so peers could celebrate their classmates’ success. A ceremony targeted at parents took place in the evening.

High School Principal Thomas Buczkowski led a welcome and introduction. He noted the inductees’ hard work and dedication to personal success.

“Enjoy this recognition,” he said. “It is well-earned and should be celebrated.” He then offered some advice, urging them to surround themselves with other people dedicated to doing their personal best and to always be curious. “How much do you want to learn? How motivated are you to learn?”

Buczkowski’s comments were followed by a rousing rendition of the national anthem by current NHS member Zak Bogosian on electric bass.

The presentation of the four components of membership and ceremonial lighting of the candle pillars – scholarship, service, leadership and character — was led by current NHS secretary Hannah Boothe, vice president Claire Castiglia and members Noah Radack and Billy Seiders.

Current NHS members — President Brandon Birner, Treasurer Cameron Pagano, Secretary Hannah Boothe, Jordan Gabel, Cassandra Pillard, Noah Restivo, Dariann Russo, and William Shevlin — were then introduced.

Buczkowski then summoned the new inductees and ceremoniously presented them with their NHS tassels. Afterward, each inductee was introduced by faculty sponsors who highlighted their accomplishments in brief but heartfelt comments.

Birner, the NHS president, then led the inductees and current members in a group recitation of the NHS pledge.

Buczkowski thanked NHS advisor Jaime Karnes, the NHS Faculty Council, the Board of Education, Superintendent Todd Crandall as well as the teachers and staff for their dedication, mentoring and contributions to student success.

“Look at this as something you can strive for,” said Buczkowski, speaking to the students in the audience. “And even if you don’t earn recognition, strive for your own personal success. There’s nothing better than to see students on display. When students are put into roles as young adults and they perform well, there is nothing better to witness as a professional.”

Afterward, the NHS members enjoyed a brunch celebration at Bob Evans in Fredonia.