NAHS: A look into the creativity

Casey Spencer '17

As a student entering high school, there are so many clubs and other activities that students can participate in. As those students grow throughout the years, there becomes more and more opportunities for the them. At a certain time in their high school career, the option of joining many of the honor societies offered at Washington Township High School becomes more of a reality.

Besides the well-known National Honors Society, there are three other societies that WTHS has to offer. Among them is the National Art Honor Society (NAHS).  This organization focuses on students who have participated or are in various art classes that have maintained the academic standards that are required. Induction into this organization starts as early as sophomore year for students who meet the requirements to join.

The goals for the National Art Honor Society is to help transform the world into a better place through artwork and volunteering at events in the community. NAHS participates in events throughout the year like the Birches and PTO craft fairs as face painters. They also host events such as District Art Night, which is typically held in April, and Family Art Night that was held January 20.

The members of NAHS also participate in a charity event called the Memory Project. The goal of this project is to benefit orphans in other countries by donating fifteen dollars to draw their portrait and to send them the drawing.

“I have always looked forward to the Memory Project the most”, said NAHS and executive board member Marissa Salamoni ’17, “I love seeing the pictures and videos of the kids with their portraits because that is all they have as a picture of themselves”.

This year, the members of NAHS were given the opportunity to draw children from Syria. “It makes me happy to see them happy”, said Salamoni.

The induction ceremony consists of NAHS advisor, Ms. Sybil Cohen, and the executive board members giving speeches and lighting candles that represent the three primary colors. The colors in the ceremony are supposed to symbolize the new opportunities that arise in the art world. Certificates, awards, and tassels are then rewarded to the members throughout the ceremony.

“Being a part of NAHS makes me see the best in the world and how much more I can give to people with my art”, Salamoni said.

After the induction, students and their families get to partake in refreshments and an art exhibition of NAHS members works.

“I do think being a part of NAHS will help me in the future. Being a part of it helps better myself as an artist and I receive more constructive criticism than just being in a classroom”, said Salamoni.

If you are a student who has an interest in art, this organization could be the perfect place for you.

“Being around everyone and Ms. Cohen really helps me get inspired and I have fun with everyone”, Salamoni said.

There are many opportunities for artists create and display their work for many people to see. Being a member can give a student many opportunities to not only better themselves as an artist, but also participate in something that can make lasting memories.