The Tanque Verde High School National Honor Society (NHS) has once again demonstrated what it means to lead through service, earning the 2025–2026 National Community Service Sapphire Award from the United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) in recognition of its extraordinary commitment to serving others.
Led by National Honor Society Faculty Advisor and AP Teacher, Ms. Lori Gahr, the TVHS chapter continues to foster a culture of leadership, compassion, and civic responsibility. Through her guidance, NHS students have embraced meaningful opportunities to serve both their local community and causes around the world.
The Sapphire Award recognizes schools whose students have made a significant impact through volunteerism while supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. During the 2025–2026 school year, Tanque Verde High School NHS members dedicated 4,395 hours of community service, positively impacting both the local community and global initiatives.
Throughout the year, NHS students volunteered with organizations focused on hunger relief, education, environmental stewardship, health and wellness, and community outreach. Their efforts reflected the core values of National Honor Society—scholarship, leadership, service, and character—while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
In addition to the chapter's national recognition, 48 Tanque Verde High School students earned individual National Community Service Awards for their outstanding dedication to volunteerism. These students were recognized at the national level for reaching significant service milestones, highlighting the culture of service that continues to thrive at TVHS.
"Our National Honor Society students continue to inspire us with their willingness to serve others," said Principal Dr. Amy Cislak. "This recognition reflects thousands of hours spent giving back, often without seeking recognition or reward. We are incredibly proud of every student who chose to invest their time and talents in making our community a better place."
Principal Dr. Cislak also praised Ms. Gahr's leadership, noting that "Ms. Gahr has cultivated a National Honor Society chapter that truly embodies what service is all about. Her dedication to our students and to our community has created opportunities for young people to develop as compassionate leaders while making a lasting impact."
The Sapphire Award is a testament to the compassion, leadership, and generosity of Tanque Verde High School students. Their collective efforts not only strengthened the local community but also contributed to a broader mission of creating a more equitable and sustainable world.
Congratulations to Ms. Lori Gahr, the Tanque Verde High School National Honor Society members, and the 48 National Community Service Award recipients for representing TVHS with excellence. Together, our Hawks continue to prove that leadership begins with serving others and that one person's commitment to service can inspire an entire community.