On Tuesday, Nov. 4, Westwood’s chapter of National Honor Society welcomed a multitude of new inductees through an honorary ceremony that took place in the Cafetorium.

Before the progression of the ceremony, students and one parent each sat alphabetically on either side of the Cafetorium. The highlight of the evening was the riveting speech given by surprise guest-speaker Seth Maxwell, CEO and founder of the Thirst Project, an organization that works with Westwood NHS to raise money for the construction of wells in underdeveloped countries. Maxwell encouraged students not to wait for opportunities to be handed to them, but to submerge themselves in new things and take risks. The appearance and speech from the young entrepreneur was inspirational to both students and other attendees.

“Seth Maxwell is only 28, and he was 19 when he started The Thirst Project. He considers himself a regular person who saw a need and acted on it, and now he calls all of us to look around and find a way to help. He believes little acts can grow into significant acts and can actually change the world,” AP Psychology teacher Mrs. Minter said. “This well is not only a gift from NHS, but from Westwood as a whole. This well in a village in another part of the world is from the 2,700 kids and staff at Westwood High School.”

After Maxwell’s empowering words, the actual induction of new members began. The NHS officers lit four candles: one for leadership, one for character, one for service, and one for scholarship. Each new member received their certificate from Mrs. Arterbury, and brought one parent to the stage to drape the cord around their neck.

“The highlight of induction was definitely Mr. Maxwell’s speech; his presentation was amazing, and he did a great job explaining The Thirst Project,” NHS President Navya Kumar ‘15 said. “His speech showed how passionate he was about this, and elevated this induction from previous years.”