The National Beta Club, founded in 1934 by Dr. John W. Harris in South Carolina, is built on the pillars of achievement, leadership, character, and service. These guiding principles continue to define the club’s vision both nationally and at Westwood High School.
Beta Club advisor Zchimon Herndon shared, “Beta Club’s mission of leadership, service, and character encourages students to become active contributors in all areas of their lives. It fosters a culture of empathy, responsibility, and teamwork that permeates school activities and interactions, influencing how students support each other and their community.”
This focus on developing well-rounded individuals extends beyond academics, shaping students’ interactions and contributions within the school environment. The positive influence of Beta Club is evident in how its members demonstrate these values, not only through service projects but also in their everyday actions and relationships with peers and faculty.
In addition, Herndon emphasized the importance of service and volunteer work in shaping students’ character. She explained, “Service and volunteer work teach students about the value of giving back and the impact of collective effort. Beta Club shows these values by consistently organizing projects that address real needs, empowering students to take ownership of their role in making a difference.”
This approach helps students recognize the power of their actions, fostering a sense of responsibility within both the school and the broader community. Beta Club members are taught how to make a tangible impact through their involvement in meaningful service projects, reinforcing the club’s commitment to leadership and service as integral aspects of student development.
At Westwood High School, Beta Club represents a perfect blend of academic excellence and creative expression. As Eric Wallace, a 12th-grade student and the current Beta Club president shared “Beta Club is the perfect blend of academic and creativity.”
This balance allows students to excel not only in their academic pursuits but also in their creative endeavors making Beta Club a dynamic environment for personal growth. Through leadership role service projects and creative activities, students are encouraged to think critically collaborate effectively, and express themselves in meaningful ways. This combination of rigorous academics and creative engagement reflects the core values of Beta Club, helping students develop into well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to their communities.
Eric Wallace also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead such a dedicated group of students into the 2024-2025 school year. He shared, “I’m so grateful to lead such a well-rounded group of Betas into the 24-25 school year, with so many seniors who have been Beta members for years, including myself.”
Reflecting on the club’s ongoing impact, he highlighted the group’s involvement in various school and community service projects, such as participating in the Westwood School Harvest Fest. He also mentioned that he is currently working on organizing upcoming events and service opportunities for the second semester, ensuring the club’s continued contributions to both the school and the broader community.
As Beta Club continues to grow and evolve at Westwood High School it remains a light of academic achievement, leadership, and community service. With the guidance of dedicated advisors like Zchimon Herndon and passionate leaders such as Eric Wallace, the club creates an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. By staying true to its core values Beta Club empowers students to make a meaningful impact not only within the school but also in the larger community. The future of Beta Club at Westwood is bright, with its members continuing to embody the principles of leadership, character, and service as they prepare to make lasting contributions to society.
