We would like to be among the first to wish you happy holidays. Although January 2017 marks a midpoint in the academic year, it is often a time for reflection and articulation of new goals. What is it that you wish to accomplish over the course of the year? 

This academic year, we announced the NASSP Student Leadership Initiative: Global Citizenship. Crucial to this effort is the following idea: a demonstrated awareness of, concern for, and involvement in the well-being and success of others beyond one’s immediate community, extending into the nation and the world.

As you think about the winter and spring months, ask your councils and chapters to consider a specific project that would focus on one of the Global Citizenship strands. For example, this time of year usually includes chapters and councils sharing with the national office several projects related to empathetic actions: donation drives for clothes, food, and supplies; sleep-outs for the homeless; holiday adopt-a-family initiatives; caroling at senior homes; and the list goes on. Each of these efforts represent the core of demonstrated concern for the well-being of others.

Be sure to share your goals and your successes throughout the year using #MakingGlobalChange on social media and visit www.makingglobalchange.org.

Again, happy holidays, and remember to think: Global Citizenship—Students Changing the World Together.

Jonathan D. Mathis, PhD
Director of National Honor Societies

Ann Postlewaite
Director of Student Programs