Franklin County Schools (FCS) is proud to announce that seventy Western Hills High School (WHHS) students were inducted into the newly formed Winnie A. Scott Chapter of the Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society on Friday, August 21, 2026. Over 200 students, parents, and community members gathered at the Thomas D. Clark Museum of Kentucky History for the charter induction.

Dr. Chaka Cummings, Director of Learning for the Kentucky Historical Society, welcomed guests and delivered a speech highlighting the chapter's namesake, Winnie A. Scott. Born in Frankfort, Scott was an African American educator who graduated from Kentucky State University in 1895. Recognizing the lack of medical care for Black citizens, she partnered with the Women’s Improvement Club to establish the Winnie A. Scott Hospital for African Americans at 228 East Second Street in December 1915. Dr. Cummings urged the new inductees to honor her legacy by valuing their education, remaining curious, and actively working to improve the lives of those around them.

The evening also featured remarks from Franklin County Magistrate and Western Hills alumnus Eric Whisman, who serves as President of the Franklin County Trust for Historic Preservation. Whisman spoke on the power of preserving local history and encouraged students to engage directly with local city government.

Retired Western Hills Social Studies Department Chair Vanessa Smith was honored for her key role in establishing the chapter and selecting its namesake. Smith joined current Social Studies Department Chair Matthew Graham, Rho Kappa Advisor Lorrie Fraley, and teachers Corey Stratton and Henry Hoffman in leading the official induction ritual.

###