The students who were inducted into the National Honor Society on Wednesday night are all different individuals.
Different strengths. Different weaknesses. Different hobbies and interests. Different passions.
But they all share one thing, as Superintendent Brad Berzinski said. They are all a representation of what it means to be a Winhawk.
On a chilly but beautiful night behind the high school, 45 “true Winhawks” were inducted into the National Honor Society, including 17 returning members in the Class of 2026, four new members in the Class of 2026 and 24 new members in the Class of 2027.
The students took the pledge to “give unsparingly of (their) time and energy,” to “be at all times a model student,” and to “uphold the high purpose” of the NHS, which has been recognizing outstanding students since 1921.
The guest speaker was Diane Leutgeb Munson from the Winona Catholic Worker, a location where many NHS students volunteer their time. She encouraged the students to approach their life with curiosity and to ask questions. NHS advisor Sarah Dixen told the students — especially those who will be leaving for college in the fall — to say yes to new clubs, to events, to helping someone else. “You will meet some incredible people along the way,” she said.
Several student board members spoke as well. Pippa Serleth introduced Munson, while the others gave a speech about each of the NHS pillars — Kiley Pollock on leadership, Avani Roka on scholarship, Adelaide Krase on service and Riley Grinsteinner on character. As NHS president, Pollock later led the students in the pledge.
Returning members include: Emily Benke, Elizabeth Graner, Riley Grinsteinner, Andrew Heltemes, Lucas Heltemes, Piper Jones, Adelaide Krase, Claire Lynch, Calla Pike, Kiley Pollock, Carson Prodzinski, Avani Roka, Eleanor Schantzen, Pippa Serleth, Elina Skranka, Rachel Spartz, Salome Tolvaisas.
New members include: Naser Adosari, Ava Henderson, Rodney Knutson, Lydia Lippman.
Juniors inducted: Aundra Aarre, Willa Bergler, Teagen Berzinski, Anna Bricco, Kenzie Bryant, Gavin Clemons, Elias Fernandez Greene, Claire Gilmer, Elsa Heinrichs, Madisyn Howell, Miriam Jackson, Julian Kohner, Ahniya Morgan, Ada Morse, Reagan Quinn, Delanee Rasmussen, Mya Roellich, Joe Sheridan, Kali Thompson, Lila Topness, Ella Urbick, Xavier Vargas, Phineas Van Fossen, Analise Wagner.
This content is sourced from
Winona Area Public Schools (District 861)
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