Redmond Proficiency Academy inducts new National Honor Society members

Redmond Proficiency Academy (RPA) students and instructors participated in an induction ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2020, where 27 new members were inducted into the RPA chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS).

“Getting into NHS has always been a dream,” sophomore Hailey Vincent said.  “I was so excited as an incoming freshman that in just one short year I got the opportunity to join such an amazing group of people. I love giving back and volunteering with the NHS in such a great community.”

Students apply for NHS membership every fall and get accepted after a review from RPA staff members. Students are evaluated on character, scholarship, leadership and service – four pillars that have been associated with membership in the organization since its inception in 1921.

The NHS website estimates that more than one million students participate in NHS activities, with chapters in all 50 states, U.S. Territories, Canada, and around the world.

NHS states that the average chapter contributes 1,000 hours of school/community service, $26,000 in charitable donations, 1,000 pounds of food to local, state, and national causes, and 100 pints of blood. Last year, RPA’s chapter logged just over 3,000 hours of community service and just under 400 hours of academic tutoring. RPA chapter members also organize a Red Cross Blood Drive each fall and spring.

Sophomore Alex Garza, a new inductee, is thankful for the volunteer opportunities provided by the NHS, and for the assistance with college preparation.

“The NHS has helped and will continue to help my education and development as a person,” Garza said.  “I have been provided with a great deal of volunteer opportunities and I always receive a sense of accomplishment after each project.”

RPA inducted the following new members: Alaina Adams, Evelyne Anderson, CaraBeth Beaudry, Megan Bendele, Ryan Bilyeu, Shelby Burris, Lillian Caldwell, Katelyn Costello, Lacy Crompton, Jacob Crumrine, Kellen Flynn, Lana Frisinger, Alex Garza, Josie Gibson, Alexandra Kemry, Audrey Leask, Evan Newell, Kristine Parker, Jenica Pitts, Gracelyn Quinn, Andrew Rosetti, Grace Sorensen, Bryson Underwood, Eva Urhausen, Hailey Vincent, Boone Wagner, and Katherine West.

RPA’s chapter is led by senior Marli Messner, president, and senior Dorlma Wang, vice-president.