The Fairport Harding High School held their annual National Honor Society induction ceremony on Friday, January 11, 2013. The newest inductees took the oath to be submitted into the prestigious program during a ceremony viewed by the entire school, along with the fifth graders from McKinley Elementary and parents. Once the newest members were tapped and selected, current members, Karyssa Rose, Daniel Jordan and Katie Campbell started the program with the reciting of the pledge of allegiance followed by lighting the candles symbolizing Leadership, Scholarship, Character and Service.

Mr. Tom Fazekas, FHS Principal, provided opening remarks explaining Fairport High School as one of the oldest chapters. Prior to 1920, schools nationwide honored outstanding students independently. In 1921, on the recommendation of several principals, the organization known as National Honor Society was begun. It is sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals.

Charters have been issued to schools consecutively since 1922. By the end of 1922 there were 14 schools involved. Fairport Harbors charter is dated June 20, 1923 and is Number 63. This indicates that Fairport Harbor schools are one of the oldest chapters in the country.

Guest speaker for the event was Linda Shetina Logan, founder and Executive Director for the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. She is a 1973 FHS graduate and is a graduate from Ohio University and where she is on the advisory board of the OU Sports Administration and Facility Management Program.

The newest members include: Ariana Bustria, Brian Griffith, Shannon Harless, Colin Hites, Hannah Hites, Zachary Janouskovec, Jordan Johnson, Kayla Langhoff, Hollie Myers, Nic Paolo and Nathan Vale.

After each member took the NHS pledge to uphold and honor the National Honor Society and the principles for which it stands, they received a certificate along with a NHS pin and card.

Advisor, Karen Bidlack, stated the students have worked very hard with their education and community commitment by maintaining a 3.0 GPA and working with community projects such as "Students Who Care". During the month of October and November, students partnered with the Fairport Harbor Village to help rake leaves and remove debris for senior citizens. Other projects include making treats and sending Christmas cards to Lake County Council on Aging shutins.

Each year the students work closely with the Fairport Men Civic Club during the Founder Day event recognizing a resident who has shown exemplary accomplishments and volunteer commitment achievements. There is a great opportunity for the students to gain a different aspect on leadership and personal goals displayed in the recipient’s lifetime.

Fairport Superintendent, Domenic Paolo, offered closing remarks at the ceremony, challenging all students to excel and take risk. He asked the study body to get involved. Set higher goals and make a difference in the lives of others as well as their own.