Huntington, IN - On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the Historic Forks of the Wabash served as the backdrop for a meaningful tradition: the Annual End of Year Luncheon hosted by the Rotary Club of Huntington and Huntington North High School's National Honor Society.
The event brought together HNHS administrators, teachers, Rotary members, and the school's top academic achievers. Rotary President John Nelson and President-elect Stacy Wiley welcomed the attendees, emphasizing the shared values between Rotary and the National Honor Society.
"This group that you're about to hear from are some of our best and brightest," Dr. Russ Degitz remarked. "They are tremendous young ladies and gentlemen. National Honors Society and Rotary have great synergy and partnership simply because they're both service-minded organizations."
Principal Dr. Degitz introduced the NHS members, who then presented their post-graduation plans. The impressive lineup included over 90 students from the Class of 2025, with multiple students serving as both Junior Rotarians and National Honor Society members.
Nelson highlighted how the NHS principles of scholarship, leadership, service, and character align perfectly with Rotary's core value of "service above self." He noted that each NHS student had completed at least 40 hours of community service, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact.
"The work you do at Huntington North, helping others, taking initiative, and striving to do your best, reflects the spirit of Rotary," Nelson told the students. "You may not think that you will, but you will become leaders because you guys are leaders." stated Nelson.
The event celebrated not just academic achievement but also the students' potential to create positive change in their communities. As these Vikings find their True North through service and leadership, they embody the values that both organizations hold dear.
Nelson encouraged the students to consider joining Rotary clubs in their future communities as a way to network and continue their service journey beyond high school.
The annual luncheon stands as a testament to the strong partnership between the Rotary Club of Huntington and Huntington North High School, and the shared commitment to developing future leaders who understand the importance of service above self.