Eight scholars were inducted into the Gouverneur Central School District National Honor Society on Wednesday, May 29 at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center.
Gouverneur High School Principal Cory Wood welcomed all in attendance. “This is a special evening where Gouverneur High School can pause and take a breath, and recognize our students who have chosen to go above and beyond with their studies. The students being inducted tonight, along with the other students who are already members, have chosen not to accept the status quo, but to challenge themselves to do better. They have accepted the notion that what we do at Gouverneur Central matters. Grades are not the only criteria. Not only have these students mastered and demonstrated their outstanding academics, but the need to be leaders in our building and our community. The induction is only the first step. Members must maintain their commitment to excellence and continue to set the bar a little higher every day, and take on new challenges as they progress towards graduation. This is not the end of their academic journey, but just the beginning. The new challenges and obstacles that lay ahead, we ask that you tonight accept that challenge and move forward as previous members of the National Honor Society have. I’d like to thank everyone for joining us this evening, and supporting our students.” GHS Principal Wood extended appreciation to Dave Spilman, Jr., Lisa Wood, and the Community Center for the use of the facility, GCS Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly for her continued support of the high school and its students, and the Gouverneur CSD Board of Education for providing the resources to create a challenging program that meets the needs of the students.
Gouverneur High School Chapter of the National Honor Society Advisor Julia Streeter then said the following: “Tonight we will recognize the extraordinary efforts of our new inductees and welcome them into the community dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. To our inductees, we are here to underscore your scholarly achievements, moral character, integrity, civic engagement, leadership and dedication to community involvement. They are all qualities that epitomize the values upheld by the National Honor Society, representing the five pillars of NHS, and tonight you will pledge to uphold these values.
“In reflecting upon the significance of this milestone, I am drawn to the Great American Classic, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, a personal favorite and a novel that many of our inductees are very familiar with. If you have not read this classic or you read it in high school three decades ago, I remind you that it centers around the enigmatic character of James Gatz, better known as J. Gatsby, and his relentless determination and persistence to achieve his American dream. Gatsby spent years setting the stage to reunite with his lover, Daisy. He amassed a great fortune, bought a mansion right across the bay from her equally affluent estate, and threw lavish parties in hopes that she would one day attend, they would rekindle their romance, and she would be his. Every decision he made was driven by his desire to fulfill his dream of being with her once more. The prominent symbol in the novel of green light, located on Daisy’s dock and visible from Gatsby’s mansion, serves as a symbol of hope, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. He reaches for it, stretching his arms out towards this light, embodying his relentless pursuit of a future filled with success, love, fulfillment. Although he never reached his dream, it was the pursuit of it that was truly inspiring. This is what made Gatsby truly great. I want our inductees to remember their own green light, and to stretch their arms out towards this light. Much like Gatsby, each of you embodies the spirit of ambition and aspiration, driven by a desire that reaches beyond the confines of the present and strive for greatness. Just as Gatsby fixated on this green light as a symbol of hope and aspiration, I want you to continue to pursue your dreams with unwavering resolve and dedication. It is through your collective efforts, guided by the enduring principles of scholarship, service, leadership and character that you leave an indelible mark upon the world.
“This evening’s honorees have demonstrated a profound commitment to their aspirations through proactive engagement. Initially, they showcased their dedication by meeting a stringent academic standard, attaining a GPA of 90 or above. Subsequently, they proceeded to formally apply for membership into NHS, undergoing rigorous evaluation by the faculty council to obtain provisional status. Upon securing provisional membership, they diligently fulfill the requirements of completing 10 volunteer hours within a compressed timeframe, seeking opportunities for community service within the school and the wider community. These individuals merit commendation for their earnest pursuits of NHS membership, characterized by both integrity and humility.
“I have had the pleasure of watching these students grow, having taught most of them in my own English classroom, which makes this occasion especially poignant for me. Witnessing their daily dedication and growth over the years has been truly inspiring and entertaining. It is an honor to be a part of celebrating this remarkable achievement with them tonight. And as their NHS advisor, I do not have to let go of them just yet. I’m relieved to know that I can maintain the connection with them as they continue their involvement as official members, as they aspire to pursue their dreams – stretching their arms toward that green light. They are truly great.”
NHS Advisor Julia Streeter then recognized the Senior Officer who will graduate from Gouverneur Central High School with the Class of 2024.
Caitlyn Storie, NHS President, will be attending Clarkson University in the Professional Studies program where she will focus on engineering and design.
Llydia Blaine, NHS Vice President, plans on majoring in Biology, but is undecided about which college she will attend.
Ivey Bulger, NHS Treasurer, will be attending Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and will pursue a major in Doctor of Pharmacy.
Meredith Bush, NHS Parliamentarian, will attend SUNY Plattsburgh and major in Early Childhood Education and will also participate as a member of the basketball team.
“I wish the very best for our senior officers who are currently serving,” Advisor Streeter said.
Zoe Griffith, NHS Secretary, will be returning as a senior NHS member next year.
NHS Advisor Julia Streeter then introduced GHS National Honor Society President Caitlyn Storie who began the induction ceremony. “Administrators, faculty, parents, guests, and students: As President of Gouverneur Central School’s Chapter of the National Honor Society, I am glad to welcome you to the 2024 induction ceremony,” President Storie said. “We are gathered here to formally recognize those students who have been selected by the faculty at GHS for successfully completing their candidacy and are being inducted as new members of our NHS chapter. For current members and those former members who may be among our guests, we hope this will serve to remind you of the standards of excellence you too are charged with maintaining as members of the nation's oldest, largest, and most prestigious student recognition program.
“Our chapter is proud to have been inducting new members since 1954 and today's ceremony indicates the emphasis on excellence that we represent for our school and community. Throughout the year, members of our chapter serve as role models for other students. In addition to the strong academic records which established the eligibility for membership, our chapter members are leaders in many student organizations, and we serve our school and community through many activities including Red Cross Blood Drives and the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign. We are proud of this record of accomplishment and welcome these new members who bring new energy and support of our continuing work as NHS members.
“The motto of the National Honor Society is “light is the symbol of truth.” The White candle symbolizes our emblem-- the flaming torch of knowledge. Tonight, each inductee will light their own white candles symbolizing their commitment to this society and the morals we stand for.”
The white candle was then lit.
NHS President Storie then said: “It is at this time that we proclaim in attendance that membership in the Gouverneur High School Chapter of the National Honor Society has been earned by these candidates through the effective demonstration of the five qualities that serve as standards for the Society; leadership, character, scholarship, service, and citizenship. Officers of the chapter will now review these qualities for the candidates.”
NHS President Storie discussed leadership as the purple candle, symbolizing leadership was lit.
“Jack Welch once said: “Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” In order to become a leader, you must first work on the aspect that is tied to who you are. You must develop the characteristics that make an effective and exceptional leader, such as integrity, resilience, empathy, and confidence. Once you have become that best version of yourself, you are then able to touch the lives of others. You are then able to inflict positive change on those around you and support others on their journey to be great. Each student sitting behind me tonight has adhered to both aspects of being a leader. They have worked and grown as individuals throughout their time at GHS in order to go out and change the lives of those in their community, by setting a great example and offering help and encouragement along the way. Students, do not let your work to be a great leader end here. Continue to improve on who you are. You are an influence on those around you.”
NHS Vice-President Llydia Blaine then discussed the meaning of character. The green candle was then lit, as it symbolizes character. Vice President Gibson said the following: “Character is the foundation of the individual… Character is about making a conscious decision each and every day to make the world a better place without faltering under the scrutiny of others. To choose kindness is the real mark of strength in an individual, and to continue choosing it is a challenge that each of the inductees here tonight have risen to. Through volunteer work, each has shown dedication to help others in their community even while having to contend with school, clubs, sports and other responsibilities. Eleanor Roosevelt once said: “People grow through experience if they meet life honestly and courageously. This is how character is built. As National Honor Society members, each will continue to build their character and set a positive example for those around them.”
NHS Secretary Zoe Griffith then spoke about the importance of scholarship. The gold candle, symbolizing scholarship, was then lit.
“Scholarship is essential in shaping the lives of these scholars. Scholarship is a character trait that portrays qualities such as intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, a thirst for knowledge, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Scholarship is the cornerstone to students’ lives, providing them with tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the modern world. As they continue on their educational journey, scholars are destined to positively impact the world around them. As Malcom X once said: “Education is a passport to future, for tomorrow is for those who prepare for today.” What distinguishes scholars is their diversity, each with unique interests, yet united by their dedication to academic excellence. Every inductee honored here today has showcased their ability to demonstrate scholarship. We trust that they will consistently show their talents and dedication in their time ahead while being involved with the National Honor Society.
NHS Treasurer Ivey Bulger then said the following as the red candle, symbolizing service, was lit: “Service is the act of helping others without expecting anything in return. The service you provide does not need to be revolutionary. As Jana Stanfield said, “I cannot do all the good that the world needs, but the world needs all the good that I can do.” Since these inductees have been in elementary school, most of them have been heavily involved in their communities and schools. They are aware of their impact and rarely expect anything in return for their actions. When called upon to take part in an act of service, some may see it as an inconvenience but these inductees have proved they want to do good, and make a difference. As for advice that I have for the inductees: Service is critical to NHS. Don’t procrastinate getting your 30 hours. The panic and stress is not worth it. Get more hours than you need to. The appreciation that people feel for your time and dedication is worth the extra effort.”
NHS Parliamentarian Meredith Bush then spoke about Citizenship as the blue candle was lit. “Citizenship is often defined as the quality of an individual’s response to membership in a community. Each National Honor Society candidate sitting here tonight has not only met, but exceeded the qualities of good citizenship. They have volunteered their time in their community as well as at school engaging in local activities and events. I hope that these inductees recognize the value of their efforts, but more importantly continue to uphold the foundations of citizenship as they advance in life. In the words of author Charles Handy, “Citizenship is a chance to make a difference in the place where you belong.” As members of the National Honor Society, it is our mission to responsibly serve our community the best we can. Each of you here tonight have earned the privilege of becoming an official National Honor Society member and I challenge you to continue to do great things by going above and beyond in your community and our school.”
NHS President Storie then inducted the eight new members: Ashlyn Besaw, Raegan Devlin, Taylor Farr, Gabrielle Free, Abigail Lucas, Hannah Roderick, Kaden Schiszler, and Myah Siebels. The inductees stood as the officers lit the inductees candles. President Storie said: “The purpose of the National Honor Society is designated in the emblem – the flaming torch. The wearer of that emblem signifies his zeal for the light of truth, his desire to lead onward and upwards, his wish to serve and his desire to keep burning the high ideals of true manhood and true womanhood. Will you as wearers of that symbol pledge yourselves to live up to its purpose?”
The inductees then said, “I will.”
President Storie then led the inductees in the pledge as follows: “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 or deed, to make its ideals the ideals of my school and my life.”
The inductees were then introduced, and were each presented with certificates and yellow roses.
Kaden Schiszler, son of Melinda and Joseph Schiszler, is a senior. He is a member of Skills USA and currently serves as treasurer. After graduation, he plans to attend Mohawk Valley Community College to continue his career path in metalworking technology and fabrication.
Abigail Lucas, daughter of Heather and Adam Crino, and Shawn Lucas, is a junior. She is member of the girls soccer team and is heavily involved in the school’s theatre club. She serves as treasurer and social media manager for the school musical, and is an active member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Club.
Hannah Roderick, daughter of Roland and Bridget Roderick, is a junior. She is a member of the varsity football cheer and competitive cheer teams. She currently serves as treasurer of Key Club.
Ashlyn Besaw, daughter of Charity Coller and Justin Besaw, is a sophomore. As a member of the basketball, soccer and softball teams, she also works to improve children’s athletic programs in the local area. She volunteers her time to our local animal shelter.
Raegan Devlin, daughter of Sean and Stacey Devlin, is a sophomore. She’s a member of the girls varsity basketball team, and is currently class president.
Taylor Farr, daughter of Tony and Tzveta Farr, is a sophomore. She is a member of the JV softball team, and currently serves as student senate treasurer. She also spends her time volunteering at our local animal shelter.
Gabrielle Free, daughter of John Free and Brandy Besaw, is a sophomore. As an active member of the Varsity Club, she is also a member of the varsity soccer, basketball and JV softball teams, and works to improve children's athletic programs in the local area.
Myah Siebels, daughter of Drew and Shelly Siebels, is a sophomore. She is currently the vice president of her class, and serves as an active member of Key Club, Art Club and St. Lawrence Figure Skating Club. She manages the website for our local animal shelter, and spends time socializing with the animals there.
The crowd gathered applauded the new members of the National Honor Society. Much gratitude was extended to the family members of the inductees. “In recognition of your support, each inductee has received a yellow rose, the official flower of the National Honor Society, to give to their support system as a thank you for all that you do,” President Storie said. “Your continued support of these young scholars has helped put them on a journey to success.”
The crowd then enjoyed an address by guest speaker, Michelle Bresett Robinson, a 1993 graduate of Gouverneur High School, former member and secretary of the Gouverneur Chapter of the National Honor Society. After graduating from GHS, Mrs. Robinson attended the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam to study music education, but changed her major to geology and graduated with a degree in science education. She also earned her masters in education from SUNY Potsdam. She has been a science educator for 24 years. She received a four-year NYS Master Teacher fellowship and recently earned a National Board Certification in Young Adolescent Science. Much appreciation was extended to Mrs. Robinson for her inspiring address. “Thank you, Mrs. Robinson, for your words of encouragement and selfless efforts to teach and inspire the younger generation,” President Storie said.
All were welcomed to enjoy a dessert reception while they congratulated the newest NHS members.
The GHS National Honor Society now includes the following students: President Caitlyn Storie, Vice President Llydia Blaine, Secretary Zoe Griffith, Treasurer Ivey Bulger, and Parliamentarian Meredith Bush, and members Ashlyn Besaw, Raegan Devlin, Taylor Farr, Gabrielle Free, Abigail Lucas, Hannah Roderick, Kaden Schiszler, Myah Siebels, Carly Bartholomew, Sierra Billings, Abigail Bowman, Brodie Burns, Kristen Burns, Mae Cummings, Gavin Davis, Graydon Hance, Madison Hopper, Faith Leader, Tucker Mussaw, Danielle Shattuck, Jacey Sheen, Riley Shepherd, Chloe Smith, Gianna Terpstra, and Kaden Wells.
For more information on the Gouverneur Central School District, visit www.gcsk12.org.
