Honors Program adds 72 new members

 The future is shining brightly for the 72 students inducted into the Honors Program at Winston-Salem State Feb. 16. 

A small induction ceremony was in Diggs Gallery to recognize students selected to become a part of the Honors Program. 

The Honors Program is specialized for academically talented students. In general it offers a strong base of academic studies, professional development, cultural enrichment and service to the community.

Masik Lawrence, a freshman  computer graphics major from Fayetteville said, "I really have to push myself even harder. There is no time for slacking in my agenda just because I'm in the Honors Program. I'm setting goals for myself and I intend to accomplish them."

Faculty, staff, and family members were in attendance.

The guest speaker was Courtney Wilson a WSSU graduate and Honors Program alumna. Wilson is a medical student at Wake Forest University. She said she expects to graduate in May 2010. 

Wilson shared advice on school, life, and addressed six key points to help the inductees achieve success: "Be selective about who you let into your life; take pride in your education; take advantage of being in the Honors Program; know where you are going in life; have manners; and always stay encouraged to succeed."

Chancellor Reaves spoke to the new inductees about the importance of hard work, discipline, and the willingness to have an open mind ready to receive knowledge. 

"I am honored," said Jordan Washington, a freshmen English major from Fayetteville.  

"I've worked so hard to get into the Honors Program.  

"I feel that the Honors Program will help me succeed because of the many opportunities they offer us," Washington said. 

Shaun Trotter a senior exercised science major from Trenton said, "When I was inducted into the honors program it was like a second graduation." 

The program has several features and activities to help students meet and maintain a high level of academic achievement including: Student Honors Organization; internships; Honors Summer Advancement Program; leadership development activities; and volunteer service projects. 

Admission to the Honors Program is categorized as full or associate. Full admission is extended to entering freshmen that are awarded institutional scholarships. 

Associate admission is offered to students who have completed at least 15 hours at the University and have a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 or higher.

Go to www.thenewsargus.com to see the list of the names of the 72 new members.