J.L. Mann High National Honor Society
I had the privilege of speaking to the inductees to the JL Mann High chapter of the National Honor Society last night. There were 63 inductees this year, a record number.
These students were honored because of their extraordinary scholastic accomplishments (all had at least a 4.0 GPA), community volunteerism and leadership ability.
My talk focused on three words: reacting, responding and initiating.
Reacting to circumstances and life is automatic and easy. As Zig Ziglar says, “you have a reaction to the wrong medication.” Most politicians spend their time reacting.
Responding is more difficult and unnatural but better than reacting. Businesses respond to competition. Responding is typically more calculated and strategic.
Initiating is more difficult. It is the essence of leadership. Leaders initiate. It is harder because it involves overcoming the powerful force of inertia. I asked them to wake up every morning thinking about how to initiate positive change within their environment.
I am looking forward to seeing great things from this existing class and new class of National Honor Society students.
Pictured with me (from left to right) are: Brenda Adimora, President; Greg Roush, Vice President for Public Relations; Matt Kofoed, Vice President for Service; Grace Williams, Treasurer; Leighton Morgan, Historian; Chris Chu, Secretary; Mrs. Susan Hughes, Principal.
