MADISON — The Madison Central School chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) welcomed eight new members Jan. 10 in an afternoon ceremony in the school’s auditorium.

New members Anthony Dodge, Michael McBride, Maxwell Sykes, Andrew Nichols, Camryn Parmon, Kendra Winterton, Matilyn Hackett and Janet Coleman join the 12 current members in the Madison chapter.

At the ceremony, the current membership performed a candle lighting, with each candle representing one of the core values of the society. The new members were then recognized individually with a brief biography, followed by the presentation of the NHS robe to each of the inductees.

The new members then took the Society’s oath to affirm their commitment to its ideals.

While much of the ceremony remained true to its traditional format, this year marked the return of an always exciting feature: a student audience. Students were invited to come to the auditorium to support their peers for the first time in more than two years.

NHS is a nationwide organization founded in 1921 by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. Membership in the NHS ranks among the highest honors a high school student can achieve.

It serves to recognize students who exhibit high levels of achievement, while also exemplifying the society’s core values of scholarship, leadership, service and character. Students must hold an average of 90 or above for consideration.

The application process at Madison includes evaluations by a faculty committee. Juniors and seniors are eligible for membership.

The society performs a multitude of activities and functions throughout the year. That includes a vitally important community service component, including its winter blood drive coming up Wednesday, Jan.18.

Chapter Advisor Joe Burdick feels that the caliber of this year’s inductees and the renewed presence of a full audience made for a truly special occasion.

“I think it’s one of the biggest induction classes we’ve had,” Burdick said. “They’re all outstanding students. And it was the first time we’ve been able to really do it in front of a student audience in a few years, so it’s exciting.”