The meeting commenced with an engaging introduction to the 2025 World Language Induction Ceremony at John F. Kennedy Memorial High School. The ceremony celebrated inductees from diverse language honor societies, including Spanish, French, Chinese, and American Sign Language (ASL). Dr. Perry, an administrator, expressed his enthusiasm for the students’ achievements and the dedication of their advisors. He emphasized the significance of language skills in becoming effective communicators, linking this to the profile of a graduate at JFK. Through a personal anecdote about using a translation service, Dr. Perry highlighted the critical role of learning languages in fostering direct communication, preparing students to be competitive in future academic and job markets.

The ceremony transitioned to the ASL Honor Society, where newly appointed officers were introduced. Rosalyn Aguilar, the President, led the group, emphasizing the society’s mission to recognize students committed to ASL and its culture. The inductees pledged to be allies of the deaf community, upholding values of scholarship and personal excellence. The Vice President and the Social Media Manager shared their excitement about the cultural significance of ASL, expressing dedication to learning and sharing its art and history.

Next, the French National Honor Society took the stage, with students reciting a poem symbolizing the illumination that language learning brings. The society’s president expressed gratitude to administrators and teachers for their support, focusing on the mission to recognize outstanding learners of French. The ceremony concluded with an acknowledgment of their teacher, Miss Cazelle, for her dedication.

Following the French ceremony, the Spanish Honor Society segment highlighted its community service initiatives and the society’s historical background. Founded in 1953, the local chapter, Pont De Leon, emphasizes the motto “All as one.” The ceremony featured the lighting of a mother candle, symbolizing dedication, with new members holding personal candles to represent their life course. The vice president, standing in for the absent president, thanked school leaders and teachers for their unwavering support.

The meeting also spotlighted the Chinese National Honor Society, where the president reflected on the supportive environment fostered by their teacher, Mr. Gho. He shared his personal growth journey in learning Chinese, emphasizing the friendships and cultural understanding developed in the class. The vice president echoed these sentiments, highlighting the engaging learning experiences facilitated by their teacher, Mr. Cahill, and the importance of hard work in mastering the language.

In a striking display of cultural heritage, the Spanish Honor Society presented a vibrant fashion show. Senora Smith wore a traditional dress from Panama, while other students donned outfits representing El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, Bolivia, and a blend of Indian and Colombian cultures.