The award recognizes NHS chapters that demonstrate strong student leadership, meaningful community service, and a commitment to the organization’s core values.
Founded in 1921 by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the National Honor Society recognizes students who excel in four foundational pillars: scholarship, service, leadership, and character. More than a century later, the organization continues to encourage students to become leaders and make a difference in their schools and communities.
For West Liberty-Salem, the recognition represents years of dedication from students, advisers, and faculty members who have helped build the chapter.
Much of the work leading to the award was completed by last year’s senior leadership team, along with former co-adviser Dee Harman and current co-adviser Surena Neer.
Student officers included Co-Presidents Geneva Estep and Emery Longaberger, Vice President Ava Astorino, Secretary Breece Gullett, Treasurer Caleb Larson, Historian Emma Smith, Parliamentarian Levi Miller, and Senior Representative Dylan King.
The award application also gave the chapter an opportunity to look back at its history and recognize the educators and students who helped shape the organization.
Neer said exploring the chapter’s history was one of the most rewarding parts of the process.
“Even though I teach science, I have always had an affinity for history, so I found it fascinating to explore our chapter’s history. I especially enjoyed reviewing past revisions to the Constitution as we worked to update the current version as part of the Chapter of Distinction process.
“The earliest Constitution we found dated back to the 1990s, when former business teacher Grace Leichty served as adviser. Twenty years later, former science teacher Carrie Smith and co-adviser Brandie Roberts made updates to the scholarship criteria. This honor builds on the work of all former advisers, faculty committee members, and student members who have contributed to the success of the WL-S chapter of the National Honor Society.”
— Surena Neer, Co-Advisor
That tradition continues this school year with a newly elected group of student officers. Belle Sarver will serve as President, Claire Ling as Vice President, Haley Brockmeier as Secretary, Josiah Johnson as Treasurer, Conner Leichty as Historian, and Sophia Landon as Parliamentarian.
Annette Bragg has also joined Neer as a co-adviser.
Current members are already putting the organization’s values into action. The chapter held its annual NHS Blood Drive on Monday, November 2, and is preparing for its National Honor Society Induction Ceremony on December 10.
Later this year, members will also host the annual Holiday Volleyball Tournament, a popular holiday tradition among West Liberty-Salem students.
The inaugural Chapter of Distinction Award recognizes not only the accomplishments of today’s students, but also the generations of advisers, educators, and members who helped establish and strengthen the chapter.
West Liberty-Salem’s National Honor Society continues to carry that tradition forward through its commitment to scholarship, service, leadership, and character.
