Artista Meant Prestige for Huntington's Young Women
The Arista was once an extremely prestigious club for young women attending Huntington High School. It was essentially an honor society and membership in it was highly sought after for the status and recognition it conveyed.
"The origin of the word 'Arista,' which means 'best,' has come down to us from the Greeks," stated a club description in the 1934 edition of The Huntingtonian, the high school yearbook. "Around this translation are woven the characteristics of the club since the members of this society are considered the outstanding junior and senior girls in scholarship, sportsmanship and service."
The yearbook spelled out in detail what the club was all about. "The aim of this club is to cooperate with the faculty to better the condition of the school," according to The Huntingtonian. "Emblems are presented to those who are outstanding in sports, scholarship and service. The aspiration of all girls should be to be eligible for membership in The Arista, the honorary society on H.H.S."
In the 1935 yearbook, the club was brought into even sharper focus. "A high average in scholarship and sports must be maintained in order to be admitted to The Arista and the girls who are allowed to enter feel that they have indeed accomplished something worthwhile," The Huntingtonian stated.
Arista members were active in 1935, making Thanksgiving donations and helping in the office and the halls. "They have also sold candy and banners at the games," the yearbook stated. "Several teas and a beach party have completed a very enjoyable program."
Teacher Jessie Williams served as the club's 1936 faculty advisor. She earned her undergraduate degree at Southwestern College and obtained a Master's at Columbia University. "While a large part of its activities is purely social, The Arista's influence is felt throughout the school not only in upholding a standard as a goal for all girls but also by work done in actual contact with the student body," according to the year's Huntingtonian. "We justly pride ourselves in having such a shining example of modern womanhood and look forward in hope for the perpetuation of this society."
The Arista continued to thrive for several decades before becoming a part of Huntington history that is largely unknown to today's students and staff.