The Wantagh High School National Math Honor Society welcomed nine inductees into its ranks this spring. The inductees included Tanisha Athwal, Ethan Chen, Jacob D’Amica, Victoria Ferraro, Liam Fields, Ethan Mei, Eva Mugavero, Keria O’Brien, and Sophia Antonia Zanelotti.

The program began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by NMHS Vice President Ashley Fox, acknowledgements by NMHS President Alexandra Gaal, and welcome by Advisor Nicholas Roberts. Keynote speaker Mr. Anthony Cedrone, Assistant Superintendent for Business for the Wantagh School District, followed with a powerful and relatable message to attendees.

Mr. Cedrone, a former volunteer firefighter, opened with a simple but profound truth: "Math is everywhere." From cooking and shopping to budgeting, travel, sports statistics, music, and rhythm, he emphasized that the world around us runs on math, whether we realize it or not. To prove his point, Mr. Cedrone encouraged the audience to Google everyday uses of math. The results, he promised, would be eye-opening.

But perhaps the most compelling part of the speech came when Mr. Cedrone connected math with his past life as a volunteer firefighter. He explained that math is not just an abstract concept—it can also be a life-saving tool. Calculating the length of a hose, determining the pressure of the water—these are real-world applications where the wrong answer can have serious consequences. “Too much water, and you could knock your teammates off their feet,” he warned. “Too little, and the fire can’t be put out.”

The keynote message was clear: the skills you learn now matter, and that they’re not just for tests or report cards—they’re for life. And while the event was a celebration of mathematical achievement, everyone was reminded to embrace the challenges and to stay curious. “It’s the skills that matter most,” Cedrone said. 

Wantagh High School National Honor Society Officers:

Alexandra Gaal, President
Ashley Fox, Vice President
Mia Cheng - Treasurer
Diane Pudell, Advisor