Convention speaker teaches importance of using time wisely

    This year’s highly successful Maine National Honor Society state convention was held on March 7 at the University of Maine.
The theme was “Leadership: Turning Passion Into Action.” The convention was preceded by a banquet at Jeff’s Catering in Brewer on March 6. Molly Bouchard, Miss Maine 2012, was the keynote speaker at the banquet and shared insight into a non-profit organization that she started. She spoke about what inspired her to take the course of action that led her to where she is now.
On March 7, Kawika Thompson, the system-wide manager of health improvement for the University of Maine System, was the keynote speaker at the convention. Thompson delivered an invigorating speech relating to the day’s theme of being a leader. He spoke about using our time and effort to participate in and advocate for that which we are passionate about. After Thompson’s speech, Maine NHS members participated in workshops relating to the theme of the convention.
There were four different workshops conducted by the Bangor Troop Greeters, Bouchard, representatives from the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Gary Allen, a runner who raises money and awareness for various causes such as the Wounded Warrior Project. Each workshop speaker elaborated on how they turn their passion into action. They also provided insight into how those in attendance can be leaders by advocating for and taking part in causes that they are passionate about.
At the convention, next year’s state officers were elected with four students from Aroostook County schools being elected to Maine National Honor Society state offices. Additionally, NHS chapters throughout Maine raised a collective $6,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and a check was presented to a representative from Make-A-Wish at the close of the day’s activities.
Ultimately, the 2014 Maine National Honor Society state convention was very fun and informative, providing Maine’s NHS members with a great deal of valuable knowledge to use in their schools and in their communities.