Sussex Academy holds Science National Honor Society inductions

Sussex Academy inducted 28 new members of its Science National Honor Society chapter during a student-led school ceremony Feb. 6.

Now 45 members strong, the chapter is open to juniors, seniors and exceptional sophomores. Each student must have demonstrated academic excellence, maintained a strong GPA and excelled in rigorous science coursework.

The school chapter was founded in fall 2023 because of the hard work and vision of graduate Cate Brown, said advisor Jennifer Couch, who noted the society’s mission is to encourage scientific thought, foster academic excellence and promote service within the community.

“A key goal of our chapter is to connect with the larger scientific and civic community,” Couch said. “We strive to share our knowledge beyond the classroom by inviting guest speakers, participating in research initiatives and engaging in service projects that promote scientific literacy.”

Leading the society are President Alexandra DeEmedio, Vice President Brianna Sordi, Treasurer Noah Benz, Secretary Keenan Williams, Historian Katya Geyer and Public Liaison Matthew Perchiniak.

Over the past year, high school students from the chapter have arranged to work with Sussex Academy elementary students and teach hands-on lessons to the younger learners in their school science classrooms.

“Chapter members have created engaging bulletin boards to bring awareness to important scientists in the field of biology and the creation of the periodic table,” Couch said.

Community and school service are integral parts of chapter membership.

“We have many ideas for science service-related projects this spring, including another lesson collaboration with the elementary school, offering tutoring or study sessions for students preparing for AP science exams, and creating awareness of the need for additional science lab spaces for students and teachers on the Sussex Academy campus,” Couch said.