Anderson Francisco Felipe of Dunkirk is receiving his National Honor Society certificate from WNY P-TECH secretary Kayla Hotchkiss.
WNY P-TECH Inducts New Members into National Honor Society
Recently, nine talented students from WNY P-TECH were officially inducted into the prestigious National Honor Society. This distinguished ceremony took place at the school in Dunkirk, celebrating the academic and personal achievements of these young scholars.
Meet the New Inductees
The new members include:
- Matthew Abbey (Welding) – Pine Valley
- Ethan Camus (Welding) – Eden
- Hernan Colon Ortiz (Mechatronics) – Dunkirk
- Anderson Francisco Felipe (Mechatronics) – Dunkirk
- Calem Izzo (Welding) – Silver Creek
- James McCrory (Welding) – Lake Shore
- Cody Rickard (Welding) – Southwestern
- Caleb Sickles (CAD) – Dunkirk
- Logan Smith (Welding) – Jamestown

Celebrating Academic Excellence
The induction ceremony, held on April 10, was an opportunity for students and their families to celebrate their hard work and dedication. Principal Jeffrey Teluk emphasized that their achievements in scholarship, leadership, community service, and character earned them the honor of joining the National Honor Society, a network of over 1 million students across the United States.
In his speech, Teluk acknowledged the critical support of family in each student’s journey, stating, “Most notably, your parents and guardians… are one of the biggest reasons you are an exceptional student and an invested member of our community.”
Key Moments of the Ceremony
Ethan Warblow, the National Honor Society president at WNY P-TECH, presided over the event. The traditional candle-lighting ceremony was carried out by members Jonathan Pilski, Noah Hardy, Paul Cunningham, and Parker Bohn, creating a symbolic moment of unity and commitment among the inductees.
Nicole Donato, the school counselor, managed the pinning ceremony, while Kayla Hotchkiss presented the certificates to the new inductees.
Inspirational Insights from a Guest Speaker
The event featured guest speaker Jailene Jimenez, a former WNY P-TECH student and Dunkirk City Schools graduate of 2021. Jimenez shared personal insights on the importance of hard work and perseverance, reminding students that “success does not come easily.” Currently employed as a drafter and designer at S. Howes Inc., she emphasized the value of continued education and pushing boundaries.
“Keep that same attitude towards everything and anything you do, even when things do not seem reachable,” she encouraged the students. Her message resonated deeply, inspiring the inductees to continue striving for their goals.
Learn More about WNY P-TECH
For those interested in the P-TECH program through Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES, more information can be found on their official website: www.e2ccb.org/programs/p-tech/.
WNY P-TECH proudly inducted nine students into the National Honor Society during a special ceremony.
WNY P-TECH Celebrates New National Honor Society Inductees
In a recent ceremony held at WNY P-TECH in Dunkirk, nine exceptional students were inducted into the National Honor Society, a recognition of their outstanding achievements in academics and character. The event took place on April 10 and was attended by students, families, and faculty members.
Meet the New Inductees
The students who received this prestigious honor include:
- Matthew Abbey (Welding) – Pine Valley
- Ethan Camus (Welding) – Eden
- Hernan Colon Ortiz (Mechatronics) – Dunkirk
- Anderson Francisco Felipe (Mechatronics) – Dunkirk
- Calem Izzo (Welding) – Silver Creek
- James McCrory (Welding) – Lake Shore
- Cody Rickard (Welding) – Southwestern
- Caleb Sickles (CAD) – Dunkirk
- Logan Smith (Welding) – Jamestown
Commending Academic Excellence
During the ceremony, Principal Jeffrey Teluk praised the students for their accomplishments in “scholarship, leadership, community service, and character.” He highlighted that their induction into the National Honor Society connects them with over a million students across the United States who share similar values and dedication.
Acknowledging Support Systems
Teluk emphasized the importance of support from parents and guardians in the students’ educational journeys. He urged the inductees to celebrate their achievements while remembering those who contributed to their success. “Your families prioritized your education and guided you to this point,” he remarked.
Highlights of the Ceremony
The induction ceremony also featured remarks from Ethan Warblow, the president of the National Honor Society at WNY P-TECH. A traditional candle-lighting ceremony was performed by fellow students, symbolizing the values of knowledge and service.
The pinning of new members was led by Nicole Donato, the school counselor, while certificates were presented by Kayla Hotchkiss, the school secretary. The event also included a motivational speech from guest speaker Jailene Jimenez, a proud alumna of Dunkirk City Schools.
Words of Wisdom from an Alumna
Jimenez shared her personal journey, reminding the new inductees of the effort required to achieve success. “Success does not come easily; you must work hard for it,” she stated, encouraging students to continue striving for excellence even after graduation.
Continuing the Journey of Excellence
In her inspiring address, Jimenez urged students to maintain their determination and resilience. “You’ll be surprised by what you can accomplish if you stay committed. Keep pushing yourselves, and you will thank yourselves in the long run,” she advised.
Explore More about WNY P-TECH
For those interested in learning more about the P-TECH program and its offerings, visit www.e2ccb.org/programs/p-tech/ for detailed information on pathways to success through education and hands-on training.