Short shifts, big impact. The National Honor Society just released new weekend and one-day volunteer slots to help students finish service hours. Sign-ups are open for verified volunteer hours that fit around classes and activities.
Madam Kelley Guzik, a NHS moderator, is an important factor of how ideas are turned into accessible, verified service projects. “Our NHS chapter’s service opportunities are created in our school community. We collaborate with Development, Admissions, the Prefects office, and any other campus group that comes to us asking for volunteers. This means that students can serve in a variety of ways at the time and location that work for them.”
Service has been a founding pillar of the National Honor Society since its creation and the organization asks members to lead not only in grades but in service and character. At Saint Ignatius, NHS ties this tradition to the school’s mission “to provide a Jesuit Catholic education that nurtures minds, shapes hearts, and transforms lives by developing students’ intellectual, moral, and ethical formation to serve the world. Dedicating time to others is one of the clearest ways NHS members demonstrate leadership, character, and a commitment to community. Beyond fulfilling a graduation requirement, service builds real-world skills, and helps students form relationships with local nonprofit partners.
“The National Honor Society was founded in 1921 by Dr. Edward Rynearson, Principal of Fifth Ave High School in Pittsburg, PA. His idea was to found an organization of students who were giving back to their communities through service as well as being top scholars. The National Honor Society is first and foremost a service organization. The Arnold Damen Chapter of the NHS was founded by Fr Raymond Grant in 1950. Service is a part of our Jesuit mission at Saint Ignatius. Thus, service is an integral part of both our school and the NHS organization” said Ms. Guzik. NHS leaders have deliberately scheduled events at varied times—evenings, weekends, and during school— to accommodate students with jobs, athletic commitments, or family responsibilities. “Our NHS Chapter offers a variety of opportunities during the school day such as tutoring and helping out in development with special events” said Ms. Guzik.
For NHS members, service provides a meaningful pause in a hectic life. Saint Ignatius views service as quiet opportunities of reflection that help develop our cura personalis. Senior Alex Schmidt, spent her service requirement setting up the Women’s Society shopping event. “I feel happiest when I’m dedicating time to others. Knowing that you’re helping someone out even if it’s something small means a lot.” Schmidt said.
Looking ahead, the NHS executive board is promoting several larger events this semester with service opportunities. These events include the entrance exam, on December 6th from 7:30 to 9AM, and spring opportunities such as the college fair or gloriam.NHS opportunities are designed to fit real student lives. The opportunities are more than meeting a requirement, they’re a chance to grow, connect, and give back. Check the NHS email and google form to sign up for second semester dates.
