On Wednesday, May 21, from 6:30 to 9:00 PM, the High Tech High School Interact Club held its annual Induction Ceremony — a heartfelt and memorable evening celebrating leadership, service, and community. This year’s ceremony welcomed 29 new members into the Interact Club, marking a significant milestone since the club’s founding just four years ago.
The evening was an intimate gathering that not only honored new inductees but also celebrated the dedication of our 10 graduating senior members, each of whom received an official Interact Club sash to wear proudly at their graduation. These seniors have exemplified the Rotary motto "Service Above Self," and their leadership has laid a strong foundation for the club's continued growth.
A particularly moving moment of the evening was the presentation of the Service Above Self Certificate to the Mahmood Family, in memory of their beloved son, Shayaan Mahmood, who tragically passed away in a scooter accident. Shayaan was a compassionate and driven student whose life embodied the values of service and empathy. His close friend, Ali Issa, shared heartfelt reflections and memories that resonated deeply with all in attendance.
The ceremony also extended recognition to senior collaborators from fellow service-oriented clubs, including Students in Action and Girl Up, whose joint efforts have amplified our community impact over the past year.
We were honored to have members of the Rotary Club of Jersey City, our sponsoring Rotary partner, in attendance. On behalf of the entire Interact Club Board and members, we extend our sincere gratitude to Rotary Club President Cynthia Vasquez for her unwavering support over the past two years. Special thanks also go to Principal Kathy Young, the school administration, and the Hudson County Schools of Technology District for their consistent encouragement and support of our club and its mission.
Another exciting highlight was the announcement of five Interact students who will attend RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) this summer—an inspiring retreat focused on leadership and service. This opportunity was made possible through generous sponsorships from the Daniel Rivera Foundation, Golden Door Rotary Foundation, and the Jersey City Rotary Foundation. Thanks to their support, these students will attend this transformative experience at no cost.
We are also deeply appreciative of the parents and families who attended the ceremony and continue to support their children’s commitment to service. The Induction Ceremony served as a reminder of the powerful journey students embark on through Interact — one that often extends well into adulthood through lifelong service as Rotarians.
To our new inductees: welcome to a community of action, compassion, and leadership. May your time with Interact shape your path as change-makers in your schools, communities, and beyond.
Together, we move forward—living the Rotary motto: Service Above Self.
