A select group of students are invited to a special event once every trimester — not for setting records or receiving straight A’s, but for demonstrating compassion, character and quiet leadership. The Trojan Spirit Lunch is a thoughtfully arranged luncheon, where nominated students are invited to share a meal. It provides a unique opportunity to honor the principles frequently overlooked in regular school life.
This recognition emphasizes the traits that characterize strong moral character and good citizenship, as opposed to honors based on grades or extracurricular achievements. Teachers nominate students based on their observations of exceptional behavior and who are consistently contributing to a positive school climate.
“These students contribute positively to the classroom environment,” chemistry teacher Ms. Valerie Thompson said. “Whether it’s through helping others, a positive attitude or treating the teacher with kindness, it’s all of those intangible qualities that make somebody special.”
The individuality of each nomination is one of the Trojan Spirit Lunch’s most significant aspects. Teachers are encouraged to consider their students’ personal development and daily conduct to identify those who best represent the values and spirit UHS seeks to instill. Doing this builds stronger bonds between students and teachers and cultivates an environment that values character.
Being nominated for the Trojan Spirit Lunch is an emotional and surprising event for many students. Because the recognition is based on character rather than accolades, students often feel truly seen for who they are instead of just what they accomplish. The experience reinforces their sense of belonging, motivating them to keep up their authentic and empathetic leadership.
“It felt great to be nominated for this because a teacher can only choose one to two out of their many students,” nominee and sophomore Madi Choi said. “It really made me feel recognized for my personality.”
Although this event only occurs once per trimester, its impact extends well beyond 35 minutes. Knowing that their principles and actions have left a lasting impression, students often feel more validated and purposeful through this nomination. In addition to academic success, the lunch gives teachers a chance to honor students more sincerely by recognizing their growth, character and emotional intelligence.
Additionally, the Trojan Spirit Lunch has a more significant influence on campus culture. Highlighting students who demonstrate kindness and tenacity as leaders sends a strong message: who you are is just as important as what you do. For both staff and students, this acknowledgment strengthens a feeling of camaraderie, respect and support.
“One of the things I’ve discovered is that sharing a meal really bonds people,” history teacher Mr. Raymond Robinson said. “Oftentimes, through this, we overcome a lot of differences and get to know one another, which helps a lot with engendering empathy.”
In today’s educational environment, where competition and performance frequently take the spotlight, events like the Trojan Spirit Lunch are crucial reminders of education’s more significant purpose: encouraging students to be their best selves. This event highlights how character development, empathy and responsible citizenship are just as important as academic excellence.
“Being recognized like this motivates me to be a vital part of the school community to demonstrate to others a positive attitude and that putting in effort and having integrity will be noticed even when they think it won’t,” nominee and senior Maddie DeBella said.
