WILMINGTON — The Scholastic Achievement Council inducted 225 students into the Phi Delta Sigma Honor Society on Monday evening. The award ceremony was organized by Erin Moore, faculty advisor for Phi Delta Sigma.
The evening started in the Wilmington Middle School gymnasium with a brief welcome and introduction from WHS principal Mindy McCarty-Stewart.
Phi Delta Sigma member Aridessa Robertson (saxophone) and WHS vocal music instructor David Beck (piano) played Ritual and Celebration by Jared Spears for the members and families to enjoy.
Phi Delta Sigma president Jody Ames introduced keynote speaker, Chris Summers.
Summers addressed members of the crowd, as he recalled growing up in Wilmington, the benefits of living in a small town and the education he received.
As he continued, he had four distinct points of emphasis — he encouraged the students to be authentic, honest, have a sense of urgency, and to allow others to help them with their journey.
The two people that he mentioned as huge inspiration in his life were Clyde Parrish, former Associate Dean of the Business College at the University of Cincinnati, and Jim Bob Plunkett, MD from Cincinnati.
Vice President Russ Smethwick introduced the inductees individually as they received their awards. These awards were passed out by Ames and Terri Roberts.
The Phi Delta Sigma student officers were also recognized: President Emily Davis, Vice President Averi Vance, Secretary Chad Davis, and Treasurer Mary Putman.
Following the receiving of Awards, Emily Davis performed a vocal solo titled I Am Not Alone by Kari Jones, and Averi Vance addressed the crowd.
Wilmington City Schools superintendent Ron Sexton congratulated and thanked the students for their accomplishments and encouraged the students and families to continue to strive for excellence.
Phi Delta Sigma is made possible by the generous donations of local businesses, former Phi Delta Sigma honoraries, and community members. If you would like to contribute to the tax deductible organization for scholarships for these members, please send to: Scholastic Achievement Council, Julie Billups, Treasurer, 488 Pratt Road, Blanchester, OH 45107.
