Rho Kappa Honors Society Inducts Newest Members

Thirteen Upper School students have been inducted into Hamden Hall’s chapter of Rho Kappa, the National Social Studies Honor Society, in a special induction ceremony this week by advisor Dr. Lisa Hill. 

Rho Kappa is the only national organization for high school students that recognizes excellence in the field of social studies. This year marks Hamden Hall’s seventh induction ceremony with around 170 students having been inducted since the chapter’s inception on campus. 

The inductees for the 2024-2025 academic year include juniors Josh Aversa, Eric Huang, Parker Jones, Matt Maniatty, and Emma Olausson; and sophomores Linda Chen, Caden Christopher, Sofia Correa, Loic Eklund, Alma Goren-Eisenberg, Leon Jiang, Andrea Lim, and Nico Razza-Baril.

“It is a joy to observe students embrace the humanities that serve to unite us,” said Dr. Hill “I am extremely proud of this chapter of Rho Kappa because they are dedicated to service and sharing their passion for the inclusion of all.”

The morning ceremony in Swain Library welcomed guests including Head of School Bob Izzo, outgoing chapter members, the newest inductees, and their parents. Mr. Izzo congratulated the new Rho Kappa inductees. He said that as History and Social Studies scholars, they have a responsibility to be active members of their communities, whether that is at Hamden Hall or in the case of our graduating seniors, next year when they are in college. 

In addition, Mr. Izzo said that History and Social Studies are Social Sciences. Social Scientists study human behavior, relationships, resources, economics, politics, and institutions. He encouraged students to work hard at finding common ground with others when discussing and evaluating complicated issues. 

“By doing so you will make a difference,” maintained Mr. Izzo.

Students were presented with certificates during a morning reception and additional remarks were made by outgoing Rho Kappa president and senior Mathias Vieth. 

According to Dr. Hill, the selection process for Rho Kappa includes meeting the required grades in social studies courses and an ability to talk about complex humanities-related topics. Once selected, students are expected to uphold the Rho Kappa values of truth, knowledge, wisdom, and service.