More than 150 students were inducted in the National Honor Society on Thursday, May 1, at Lincoln-Way East High School.

The students, who have demonstrated character, leadership, service and scholarship, pledged to uphold the high purpose of the National Honor Society and to be true to the principles for which it stands.

“I will be loyal to my school, and I will maintain and encourage high standards of scholarship, service, leadership and character,” the students recited during a candle-lighting ceremony.

“We are pleased and proud of you,” Lincoln-Way East teacher Marcia Steward and 2006-07 Faculty Award Recipient told the group before reciting a list of well-known scholars, athletes and journalists who have been inducted into the National Honor Society.

The list included such names as CBS Evening News anchor Katie Couric, former President Gerald Ford, supermodel Cindy Crawford, industrialist Lee Iacocca and Hall of Fame shortstop Cal Ripkin, Jr.

“I don’t want to scare you,” she told the students after reciting the names, “but, rather, inspire you.”

“It’s up to you to take advantage of the skills (you possess),” Lincoln-Way East Principal Dr. Michael Gardner told the group after congratulating them for exhibiting sound leadership and demonstrating good character and service to others.

Being inducted into the National Honors Society is “more than just good grades,” he added.

“Congratulations to you outstanding young people,” Superintendent Lawrence Wyllie told all of the inductees Thursday night. “May life be kind to you, and may you be kind to others.”