College admissions officials panel at The Carter Center event
On Saturday, December 2, nearly 500 NSHSS members, families, and teachers gathered at The Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, Georgia, for an inspiring program hosted by Emory University. The event honored our scholars and distinguished educators, and included a panel discussion with college admissions officials from seven universities, including Emory, Yale, the University of Georgia, Spelman College, Morehouse College, SUNY Stony Brook, and Agnes Scott College. NSHSS Chair Claes Nobel provided the keynote address, inspiring students to accept the challenge of becoming tomorrow’s leaders and ambassadors for peace. Mr. Nobel began his impassioned speech by reading a personal welcome letter from President Carter and Rosalyn Carter to the NSHSS members.
The collegiate panel, which consisted of deans of admission from the participating institutions, discussed various elements of the college application process, including timelines, common applications, early action and early decision, interviews, college visits, college selection, and much more. After the program, members had the opportunity to meet with the college representatives and to ask questions and network with them in a college fair setting . The college representatives were impressed with the caliber and diversity of the NSHSS members who visited their booths.
We also heard from Student Council member Marie Harding about her transition from Boise, Idaho, to college in San Diego, and her experiences traveling with NSHSS in Australia. Atlanta member Shakera Duffy addressed the group about her participation in the recent local community service project and encouraged members to get involved in future service projects. Holiday music was provided by “No Strings Attached,” a highly acclaimed a capella group from Emory.
NSHSS Chair Claes Nobel with member Pharra Perry
Be sure to read Marie's speech given at the event.
“I can’t find the words to tell you how thankful I am for the opportunity to speak at such a life enhancing event. I really enjoyed the program, which has had a positive effect on my attitude and outlook on education. Every day at school I am inspired to strive higher in preparation for a better future.” Shakera Duffy, Jonesboro High School, Jonesboro, Georgia
“I would like to comment how grateful I am to have received an award from the NSHSS that was initiated by a former student. Teaching awards mean even more when they reflect the lasting impact that a teacher can have in the life of a student. Ultimately, that's what the long hours are all about. I am also particularly honored to have met and been congratulated by a member of the Nobel family. Throughout my career, I have held up the accomplishments of scientists in winning Nobel prizes as the ultimate recognition of a life's work. It was truly special to have met and shaken the hand of a member of that distinguished family.” Dr. Walt Snow, Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction, Berkmar High School, Lilburn, Georgia
Visit our website for more information on the NSHSS Educators of Distinction Program.
NSHSS looks forward to holding an annual holiday program at The Carter Center in Atlanta, and we all wish you Happy Holidays.
