Home

NHS Officers Embrace Leadership

"Your voice has value, and you should never underestimate the impact of an idea simply because it seems small. Show up, share your ideas, and never forget that leadership is about serving others!"
Montini Catholic recently introduced their 2026-2027 officers of their Saint Pope Paul VI National Honor Society (NHS) at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's NHS Inductions on October 22, 2026.  In August, Senior NHS members (inducted in the 2025-2026 ceremony) were invited to apply for an officer position for the 2026-2027 school year, with applications reviewed by NHS moderators Mr. Mike Dailey and Ms. Brittany Molenda.
 
The newest officers are seniors, Gavin Conway, Teagan O'Connor, Maryfaith Considine and Mary Zouras.
 
Officers work with faculty and administration to help organize Montini's annual blood drive as well as the induction ceremony.  They also help tutor younger peers.  "Each responsibility is a little different, which makes the officer position interesting and will give me a chance to be involved in different areas of this organization," said Mary Zouras, adding, "My favorite part about being involved in NHS is getting to participate in events that have an impact on our school and community.  I especially enjoy organizing the annual blood drive. It's something we put a lot of work into and it's rewarding to know that it can make a difference for people outside of our school."  Maryfaith Considine added, "This year, we're also working to build upon existing traditions while introducing new opportunities for members to get involved. For example, we hope to encourage greater participation in our blood drive and establish an annual trip to Feed My Starving Children."
 
"I feel very fortunate to have been entrusted with this (leadership) responsibility," said Maryfaith Considine. "I recognize that serving as an officer is a privilege that comes with an obligation to give back to the organization and the community it represents. Being an NHS Officer has taught me that leadership is about finding ways to turn those aspirations into something tangible. It is easy to become comfortable with established traditions and simply follow the footsteps of those who came before us. However, I think there is also tremendous value in finding opportunities to build upon what already exists and leave NHS a little better than we found it! Whether that means creating a new poster board for Open House, organizing service opportunities, exploring new merchandise, or helping our peers through tutoring, I have learned that leadership does not always have to be something grand or particularly visible. Sometimes, it is found in the smaller efforts that make an organization more welcoming, accessible, and meaningful to its members. Each of us brings different strengths and perspectives to the officer team, and learning to recognize and build upon those differences has been one of the most rewarding parts of this experience!"
 
Mary Zouras credits the encouragement of her friends and teachers at Montini for inspiring her to step into leadership. Their example has helped shape her own approach to being an NHS officer. "Being an officer has taught me that being a leader involves more than just having a title. A lot of the work happens behind the scenes and requires you to take responsibility and make sure things get done. I've also learned how important it is to work together with others and communicate our ideas. I have friends who are involved in different activities and seeing the time and effort they put into them motivates me to do the same. My teachers also encourage me to get involved and push myself to take on new responsibilities. I think being surrounded by people who care about what they do makes me want to be a better leader too."
 
"Without a doubt, my parents inspire me every day to lead authentically, remain grounded, and continually strive to become the best version of myself," says Maryfaith.  "Raising five children is certainly no small undertaking, so I suppose I still have quite a bit to learn from them! All jokes aside, my parents have always been my greatest source of encouragement. They are my loudest cheerleaders, but more importantly, they are the people who continually remind me that the things worth accomplishing are rarely accomplished alone. Despite carrying responsibilities of their own, they have never hesitated to make time for me, whether that means offering advice, helping me work through an overwhelming schedule, or staying up far later than any of us would care to admit as I finish a school project or poster board. I would not be able to participate in the organizations I love or take on the responsibilities I have without the support system I am lucky enough to come home to. For that, I am endlessly grateful."
 
​Another favorite aspects of NHS​ for Maryfaith is the Ceremony of Lights and Pillars. "Having experienced the induction process myself, it is incredibly special to now witness the incoming members begin that same journey. It reminds me that the opportunities and encouragement I received as a member are things I now have the responsibility to help extend to others. Even the prospect of organizing a trip to Feed My Starving Children can give members a meaningful opportunity to experience the importance of service alongside their peers. More than anything, I appreciate that this position allows me to help foster a sense of community. I love brainstorming new ideas, but the most rewarding part is seeing those ideas become opportunities for others to get involved, form connections, and feel that they have a place within NHS."

The young Bronco leaders were asked to share their advice to those in high school who may be skeptical to step forward into leadership positions. "Do not be afraid to get more involved, even if you're unsure at first," advises Mary.  "You don't have to be the person who always has the most ideas or speaks up the most. You just have to be willing to take responsibility and follow through with what you commit to."
 
"One of the most important qualities of a leader is the willingness to listen," added Maryfaith. "It is easy to associate leadership with having the answers or being the person who takes charge, but some of the best ideas come from people who are willing to step forward, share their perspectives, and learn from those around them. Regardless of your title or position, your voice has value, and you should never underestimate the impact of an idea simply because it seems small. Show up, share your ideas, and never forget that leadership is about serving others!"
 
To be eligible for membership in Montini Catholic's National Honor Society (NHS), students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 4.0 at the end of their sophomore year. Eligible students are invited to apply, detailing their qualifications in four areas: Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Character. Those who meet all membership requirements are invited to join NHS during the fall of their junior or senior year. Members are expected to maintain high academic standards, demonstrate leadership within the school and complete 10 hours of community service annually, in addition to the 40 service hours required for graduation.
 
"These four students exemplify the leadership, dedication and commitment to service that we hope to instill in all of our Broncos," said Principal Chris Tiritilli. "We are proud of the initiative they have taken, the ideas they bring to NHS and their willingness to make a difference in our school and community."

Montini Catholic is a Lasallian college preparatory high school located in Lombard, Illinois (DuPage County).

Photo:  l to r: Teagan O'Connor (Wodrige), Mary Zouras (Downers Grove), Gavin Conway (Lombard) and Maryfaith Considine (Naperville)
Back