FAIRHOPE, Ala.—On April 3 in the Fairhope High School Black Box Theatre, the National Spanish Honor Society, or the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, inducted a record-breaking 79 students, marking the largest group of honorees the school has seen to date.

The ceremony celebrated years of students’ dedication to learning the new language. To be eligible, students had to complete at least three years of Spanish and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher—a feat that requires both commitment and determination.

“I was given a gold and red cord for graduation,” said Helayna Cameron, senior. “It’s a symbol of my dedication to learning Spanish. I’m happy I decided to stick with it every year and am able to show it off when I walk.”

Cameron emphasized the community and connection that comes with joining an honor society, especially one centered around language learning.

“Honor societies award scholarships most of the time and are a good community to be in,” Cameron said. “It makes students feel closer to each other and boosts morale in their skills—at least that’s how I see it.”

The informal ceremony sat students in the Black Box’s stands as Spanish teachers Ashleigh Russell and Sarah Holt announced them and gave introduction to each inductee. After everyone received their respective certificates and cords, senior Marisol Acker, NSHS Executive President, recited the purpose and mission of the society, as well as the pledge.

“I am thankful to be a member of the National Spanish Honor Society. It makes me feel accomplished and appreciated for my hard work and dedication to learning the language,“ said Olivia Jernigan, junior.

After the induction ceremony, students filed outside the Black Box for a quick feast—foods ranging from Los Tacos food to Spain’s flag-colored cupcakes waited for them. Students sat in the hallway, conversing with their fellow inductees before making their way back to class.

“The Los Tacos and socialization was the perfect end to the ceremony. I really enjoyed getting to talk to everyone and feel proud of our accomplishment,” said Ella Shedd, junior.

For many inductees, this ceremony was a moment to celebrate the personal challenges they have overcome. NSHS continues to grow each year, giving students a platform to showcase their academic achievements and foster their global curiosity and cultural appreciation.