Cranberry High Celebrates 23 New National Honor Society Inductees

Cranberry High Celebrates 23 New National Honor Society Inductees

By Bradley Smith | 3/11/26

Twenty-three students were formally inducted into Cranberry High School’s National Honor Society (NHS) on Wednesday, March 11, during a ceremony that celebrated their achievements in scholarship, leadership, service, and character.

The ceremony began with senior and NHS Historian Landon Baker introducing a video about the purpose and impact of the National Honor Society. The video, created by Baker, highlighted the activities and service projects members participated in throughout the year and featured interviews with current members sharing advice and reflections on their experiences.

“Advice I can give is to maintain a proper GPA, make connections, and get involved in the community,” noted President of NHS Conner Zerbe in the video.

Zerbe then recognized the current officers and the organization’s advisor Trisha Dixon.

“The induction ceremony is always a special night because it recognizes students who work hard not only in the classroom, but also in how they lead and serve others. It’s inspiring to see so many young people committed to making a positive impact,” said Dixon.

Rhetta Boocks, senior and secretary of the organization, talked about the pillars of the NHS.

"Inductees into the National Honor Society must exemplify the highest standards of moral and ethical behavior… Strong character is essential for effective leadership," said Boocks.

Ashley Cowles-Sheffer, a 2012 graduate of Cranberry High School and former National Honor Society member, served as the keynote speaker at the school’s recent NHS induction ceremony. She is the founder of Core Goods, a business that connects consumers with locally produced food and partners with more than 100 farms and food producers. In addition to her business success, she has been recognized as FLEX Young Professional of the Year and helped launch initiatives such as Farm to Neighbor, which provides free local food to community members facing food insecurity.

In her speech, Sheffer encouraged the inductees to focus on character development rather than just their academics and GPA. “Achievement gets you noticed, but character makes you remembered,” she remarked.

Sheffer also noted that, “NHS is not the finish line. It's the start, and it's an invitation to lead your life this way. Be an example in the classroom, hallways, and community. Lead through kindness, respect and consistency, get involved in helping the needs of others, and commit to lifelong learning and growth.”

Cranberry High School recognized teacher Dan O’Brien as an Honorary Member of the National Honor Society for exemplifying the organization’s values of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. O’Brien, who has taught Earth & Space Science and Intro to Engineering and Technology at CHS for nine of his 11 years in education, was honored for his dedication to students both inside and outside the classroom.

In addition to teaching, O’Brien is an American Meteorological Society–certified teacher, SKYWARN storm spotter, and VEX Robotics coach who has mentored hundreds of students and helped many earn awards and compete at the world championship level. He also helped launch the Empowerment Collaborative program at CHS, which encourages students to build community connections and develop leadership skills.

Giving thanks for the award, O’Brien exclaimed, “I’ve never stopped learning in my life, and I never intend to. You’ve [referring to students at the event] taught me so much about myself, so I can help you. Be inspired and inspire others. Education is not about achievement, but about making leaders.” 

William Vonada, Cranberry’s superintendent, spoke about the importance of the NHS: "I hope this accomplishment motivates you to serve and lead your community through character. Character gives responsibility when excuses are available. You’re trusted with the responsibility to motivate others,” said Vonada. 

Following words of wisdom from Vonada, Zerbe called each inductee forward to sign the official NHS book, receive their pin, shake hands with school administrators, and collect their commemorative gift. 

The 23 students inducted were Jonathan Lander, Brooks Mason, Tyler Miller, Darien Wenner, Shia Sanchez, Madelyn Hibbard, Landon Melat, Lincoln Galla, Brody Bowler, Cash Findlay, Meica Burneisen, Karli Schneider, Sarah Milford, Anna Shaffer, Daniel McCain, Brody Weaver, Deryk Delong, Hannah Smith, Gabriel Schweikert, Addison Goodman, McKenna Michael, Carter Best, and Raegan Antrilli.

Inductee Karli Schnieder was recognized but not able to attend the event.

Inductees became official members of the society by reciting a pledge led by Zerbe.

Two of those inductees, Carter Best and Darien Wenner, felt blessed and motivated after being inducted. 

“It’s a blessing being inducted into the National Honor Society. I came a long way and all the stuff I learned helped me reach my goal,” explained Best. 

Wenner noted, “I’m going to use this accomplishment for college applications and be a better citizen and motivate people in my community.”

The ceremony came to a close with Principal Kayla Loll who encouraged inductees: “Continue the hard work that got you selected, you have to be a leader in this society to make the world a better place. Keep moving forward and you got this,” said Loll.

Refreshments and snacks were available after the event.