Main Line Private School Students Inducted into Foreign Language Honor Societies

July 28, 2010 - PRLog -- During Devon Prep’s recent World Language Honor Society Induction Ceremony more than 50 sophomores and juniors were told that studying a foreign language would prepare them well for a global society.

“Survival in today’s global community begins with individuals who have language abilities,” explained the evening’s speaker, Rev, Nelson Henao, Sch.P., Devon Prep Faculty member and a native of Bogota, Columbia.  “They can bridge the gap between cultures; contribute to international diplomacy; promote national security and world peace; and successfully engage in international trade.”

Before an audience of parents and family members 32 students were inducted into the Spanish National Honor Society (SNHS), 17 into the French National Honor Society (FNHS), and four into the German Honor Society (Delta Epsilon Phi) for excellence in their language studies. The inductions included a candle lighting ceremony and distribution of honor cords for the seniors.

Father Nelson also discussed the difficulties of learning a new language as well as the importance of doing so.  “Learning a new language opens up opportunities, and gives you perspectives that you might never have encountered otherwise,” he said.

“Learning a new language gives the learner the ability to communicate and understand a culture on its own terms,” Father Nelson continued. ” In a world where nations and people are ever more dependent upon one another to supply goods and services, resolve political disputes, and ensure international security, understanding other cultures is paramount. “

Induction into each of the societies requires at least two years of study in the language with at least a 3.5 average. Each society also requires community service.

Devon Prep is a small, private, Catholic, college preparatory school for young men in grades six through 12 conducted by the Piarist Fathers. Located on a 20 acre campus on the Main Line, Devon Prep enrolls nearly 300 students from Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Bucks and Philadelphia counties. For more information call 610-688-7337 or visit www.devonprep.com or www.facebook.com/devonprep.