GHS Clubs and Activities

Below is a list of the Clubs and Activities available to students at Gainesville High School.

Note: Clubs and activities are governed by PWCS Regulations:

Regulations and Applications

School Sponsored

Non-School Sponsored


Student Council Association

Class of 2025

Led by the senior class officers, this group organizes events for the school and senior class: Senior Sunrise, Senior Sunset, Senior Class Trip, Senior Gift, painting the senior rock

Andrew Batt, [email protected] 

Katelyn Lehew, [email protected] 

Class of 2026

Led by the junior class officers, this group organizes events for the school and junior class: PowderPuff Football, Prom, painting the junior rock

Erica Picard, [email protected] 

Terri Wiersberg, [email protected] 

Class of 2027

Led by the sophomore class officers, this group organizes events for the school and sophomore class: Talent Show, painting the sophomore rock

Lisa Emmett, [email protected] 

Naquita Beasley, [email protected] 

Class of 2028

Led by the freshman class officers, this group organizes events for the school and freshman class: PowderPuff Volleyball, painting the freshman rock

Michelle Karnbach, [email protected]


School Sponsored

Academic Research Club

No Sponsor

American Sign Language Honors Society

This club is opened to students who are currently taking or who have already taken ASL 2 and 3 and have a 3.0 GPA. The purpose of this group is to educate the GHS student body about Deaf Culture and Language and provide an opportunity for ASL students to improve skills and to serve our local Deaf community.

Denita Relaford, [email protected]

Astronomy Club

Astronomy Club meets monthly to delve deeper into the mysteries of the Universe and our human efforts to explore it. We discuss hot topics in Astronomy such as black holes, dark energy, stellar formation, the James Webb Space Telescope and of course, extraterrestrial life. Our members engage in activities from building models to learn principles of rocketry to analyzing the efficacy of planned missions to Mars.

Sarah Pazos, [email protected] 

Badminton Club

The Badminton Club meets sporadically throughout the school year for students to participate in badminton activities. We do not have a set schedule as we need to use the gymnasium. Dates will be communicated via Canvas announcements. When we do meet, please meet in room 2110 and have a ride pick you up by 3:45.

Cynthia Baird, [email protected]

Best Buddies Club

Tanya Deyerle, [email protected]

Bowling Club

GHS Bowling is a School Sponsored Club that meets from November through February. The teams compete against neighboring high schools weekly on Thursdays from 3:30 to 5PM at Bowl America (Bull Run). There are other tournaments that students may enter throughout the season and a high school end of season tournament in the spring. GHS is excited to offer Bowling to interested students. Come out and join the team.

Vincent O'Neill, [email protected]

Chemistry Club

Sara Antillon, [email protected]  and Liz Tirado, [email protected]

Chess Club

Chess clubs' main purpose will be to educate a diverse group of students on how to play the game and learn expert strategies/tactics that will overall improve their skill level. Similarly, we will also host tournaments for prizes for enjoyment and bonding between players. 

Robin Allen, [email protected]

Computer Science Club

A computer club is a group of people who share an interest in computers, gathering to learn about coding, new technology, discuss computer-related topics, troubleshoot issues, improve their skills, and often participate in activities like programming, web design, or gaming, all while providing a social space for those with similar interests to connect and share knowledge; essentially, it's a community focused on enhancing computer literacy and exploring the world of technology together. The members will learn programming languages such as Scratch, Python and Java.

Arnel Dimla, [email protected]

Criminal Justice Club

Criminal Justice club is for any grade level students who are interested in crime scene investigations, forensic sciences, law enforcement procedures, and fun activities like self-defense and student lead discussions on their topic of choice! With snacks provided, no dues, and six needed club attendances, Criminal Justice Club is set to be a fun experience!

Jeffrey Bergman, [email protected]

Cybersecurity Club

The Cybersecurity Club offers a hands-on, collaborative environment where members can explore the fundamentals of digital security, ethical hacking, and online privacy. Through interactive activities and real-world scenarios, participants will gain practical skills to protect personal and organizational data. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, the club provides an inclusive space for learning and growth in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.

Crystal Wallace, [email protected]

DECA

DECA is a business club where students learn about marketing, business management, entrepreneurship, hospitality, finance, and more while having the chance to compete regionally and nationally against other DECA members. They also get some hands on experience in our different committees of students to work on their goal for the year and build project management experience working as a team.

Tim Keenan, [email protected]

Educators Rising

Jennifer McKee, [email protected]

Engineering Club

Timothy DeFelice, [email protected]

Environmental Club

Karin Boyd, [email protected]

Evergreen Club

Karin Boyd, [email protected]

Future Business Leaders of America

Lesleye Williams, [email protected]

FCCLA

Family Career and Community Leaders of America, FCCLA prepares members for careers through its four Career Pathways: Human Services, Hospitality and Tourism, Education and Training, and Visual Arts and Design. Students interested have to have had or be currently enrolled in a FACS class sometime in their school career (6th -12th grade).  Students who want to participate in cooking experiences must pass a food handler examination with 100% and have parent permission to be in the kitchen labs.

Jennifer McKee, [email protected]

French Club

The French Club is a social group that brings students, staff, community interested in French culture and language together.  French Club has something for everyone, whether you are interested in the language, French food, literature, art, or music. 

Laurence Nkenni, [email protected]

French Honors Society

The aim of the French National Honor Society is to stimulate interest in the study of French to promote high standards of scholarship, to reward scholastic achievements, to create enthusiasm for and an understanding of Francophone cultures, and to promote international friendships.
Members organize activities to promote French and Francophone culture and work on special events such as the Multicultural Night at GVHS or other community service activities.

Meriam Lahlou, [email protected] 

Laurence Nkenni, [email protected] 

 

Future Architects & Civil Engineers

Timothy DeFelice, [email protected]

Future Youth of Aviation & Aeronautics

Justin Jou, [email protected]

Hispanic Student Union

Sara Antillon, [email protected], Colette Rafferty, [email protected], and Liz Triado, [email protected]

HOSA

Full Member Meetings: Third Wednesday of the Month (Competitive and Service events TBA)

Blurb: As a member of HOSA, you will learn about the health professions, enhance your teamwork skills, and develop your leadership skills. HOSA is truly student-led,  providing a unique program of leadership, service, education, and social opportunities for students enrolled in health science/occupation programs.  Our major focus in on developing the “soft skills” needed in today’s competitive health care careers. In March of each year, interested and qualified members travel to the State Leadership Conference for networking, education, and a wide range of competitive events. We are co-curricular and school sponsored, your membership dues contribute to international membership, club activities, competitive activities, and your academic regalia at graduation.

Links: HOSA International: https://hosa.org/, HOSA Virginia: https://www.virginiahosa.org

Erika Harvey Nichols ([email protected]), Roslynn Wingo ([email protected])

Java Script Club

Shruti Patel, [email protected] 

Journalism Honor Society

Justin Jou, [email protected]

Key Club

Meghan Cioletti, [email protected] 

 

Law Club

GHS Law Club provides insight into the field of law, offering students the opportunity to participate in mock trials, hear first-hand from professionals in a variety of legal occupations, and gain valuable experience in public speaking and argument construction.  If you are a student who is interested in pursuing a career in the field of law, then Law Club is the place for you!  The club is open to all GHS students.

Kara Sidener, [email protected] 

Lex Societas Pre-Law Honor Society

Lex Societas is dedicated to fostering the next lawyers, scholars, and leaders. We encourage students to explore mediums of justice through engagement within the legal field. Our ultimate goal is to provide a medium of legal study and advocacy in order to cultivate a youth interest in law.
 This is the mission displayed on the webpage for Lex.

Jeffrey Bergman, [email protected] 

Linguistics Club

The Linguistics Club at Gainesville High School aims to bring together people who have an interest in all languages and their intricacies. Meetings will focus on discussing languages in depth by applying linguistic concepts. Unique features of specific languages will also be gone over with the goal of encouraging and informing of the importance of linguistic diversity.

Trevor Esposito, [email protected]

Literary Magazine Club

Interested in creative expression? Want to learn about the publishing process? Join Vision and Voices, Gainesville's literary magazine club, where you will work with other students to select and discuss work made by fellow GHS students and turn them into a physical magazine.

Grace Cutsinger, [email protected]

Marine Biology Club

The Marine Biology Club at Gainesville High School aims to bring people together who are passionate about the ocean and marine life or are interested in learning more about them. Sea creatures and the environments they live in are explored in depth. The importance of ocean conservation is also discussed, covering specific causes, effects, and steps towards restoration.

Erin Schlag, [email protected] 

Liz Tirado, [email protected] 

Mechanical Engineering and Car Club

Jonathan Lang, [email protected] 

Model UN

Gainesville Model United Nations is a club centered around international diplomacy and debate.  Students learn to discuss and attempt to solve the problems of the world in a diplomatic and productive way while competing with students from all over the Northern Virginia region.

Robert Scott, [email protected] 

Multicultural Club

Multicultural Club educates members on the various products, perspectives, and practices of the Gainesville High School student body. We strive to celebrate the diversity and culture of all members in the Gainesville community. 

Jennifer McDonald, [email protected]

Sara Antillon, [email protected] 

National Art Honor Society

The National Art Honor Society brings art to the Gainesville High School community through mural painting, displays, art workshops and community outreach. Members apply in April and are inducted in May. Applicants must have taken an Art Class at the High School level.

 

Jennifer Marshall-Greeson, [email protected] 

Amanda Miller, [email protected] 

National English Honor Society

National English Honor Society is a space for students who love English language and literature in all its forms and want to promote literacy in their community. To apply, students must be a sophomore, junior, or senior, must have taken at least one advanced English course, and must maintain a 3.5 GPA.

Erin Gulyas, [email protected] 

National Honor Society

Michael Baird, [email protected] 

National Math Honor Society

Mu Alpha Theta is the National Math Honor Society.  New members must have all A's and B's in prior math classes and currently be enrolled in a fully weighted math course.  Associate members can be in Advanced Algebra 2.  The club provides after-school Peer Tutoring on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:14 to 3:14 in room 2107.  We also participate in optional math competitions.

Jennifer Rhawn, [email protected]

National Technical Honors Society

Are you taking Business, Engineering, Law, or Biomed? Join National Technical Honor Society! NTHS is an honor society for students taking CTE classes. This club will be full of small projects, professional speakers, and resume building activities to prepare you for college and your future major. Join NTHS today!

Madeline Ott, [email protected]

No Place for Hate

Jennifer McDonald, [email protected], and Vince O'Neill, [email protected]

Our Minds Matter

Rachelle Green, [email protected] 

Alyse Coleman, [email protected] 

The Olympiads

The Olympiads club fosters an environment of healthy competition amongst students.  The objective of the club is to allow students to have the opportunity to participate in competitions related to their field of interest such as medical, science, research, etc. at the international Olympiads.  Email Dr. Emmett for more information. 

Lisa Emmett, [email protected] 

Photography Club

Julianne Huddleston, [email protected]

PRISM

Julianne Huddleston, [email protected]

Psychology Club

The mission of the organization shall be to focus on practical application of psychology’s theories and ideas, provide extended academic and social opportunities, be involved with community service projects, and promote awareness of the field. 

Michael Quear, [email protected]

Python Progammer's Club

Nathan Nemerow, [email protected]

Rho Kappa Social Studies Honors Society

Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society is the only national organization for high school juniors and seniors that recognizes excellence in the field of Social Studies. Rho Kappa provides national recognition and opportunities for exploration in the social studies and aims to encourage an interest in, understanding of, and appreciation for the social studies through academic study and community involvement.

Bethany Stevenson, [email protected]

SALC

Michelle Karnbach, [email protected] 

Julianne Campbell, [email protected] 

SAT Prep Club

Student tutors who have demonstrated a high level of success on the SAT will provide weekly tutoring and guided practice to students wanting to practice for an upcoming SAT.

Edith Rutz, [email protected]

Science National Honors Society

SNHS is a national organization for 11-12th grade students that aims to encourage scientific exploration and excellence while promoting leadership and service. Students may apply for membership during the application period at the beginning of each year and, if invited to join, must maintain membership by providing services and/or engaging in extracurricular scientific endeavors. 

Zihan Guo, [email protected]

Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica

The Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica is a national organization whose purpose is to recognize high achievement in Spanish by high school students and to promote the continuing study of the language and its respective cultures. Each school has its own local chapter of SHH, and students are inducted into the local chapter at their school. Service hours may be earned for tutoring Spanish students after school, assisting in the organization of SHH events such as Conversation Circles, assisting in service projects determined by the current society members, and to participate in other Spanish-language related events and Hispanic cultural events to be determined by the society.

Virginia Guilfoyle, [email protected]

Solace Club

Julianne Huddleston, [email protected]

Spanish Club

Colette Rafferty, [email protected]

STEM Innovators Club

STEM Innovators club aims to bring a little bit of scientific, technological, mathematical, and engineering fun to each meeting! At each meeting, members get to explore various phenomena, perform experiments, or compete by building something to enhance their appreciation of the world around us. It is a casual, low-stress, STEM exploratory club that students of all ages are welcome to join!

Zihan Guo, [email protected]

Student Asian Student Association

William Poch, [email protected]

Student Voice Committee

Student Voice Committees (SVCs) aim to create meaningful partnerships between students, educators, and administrators with the goal of enhancing the climate and culture of their school building. With the ultimate goal of including students in the decision-making process, SVCs help to:

 

1.         Elevate student voice and perspective within their school and the division at large 

2.         Strengthen the school community through action research and continuous improvement

3.         Support students as they hone their leadership skills

 

Michele Karnbach, [email protected] 

Technology Student Association

Technology Student Association (TSA) is a club focusing on current and emerging technologies in engineering and manufacturing. Students in this club will have the option to compete in the NASA HUNCH Prototype and Design competition at Langley Research Center. TSA focuses on the design process, of coming up with solutions, prototyping, testing (breaking) and then improving. If you are interested in Engineering, come check us out.

William Craig, [email protected]

Tri-M Music Honor Society

Tri-M Music Honor Society is a program of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), which focuses on creating future leaders in music education and music advocacy. It is the only music honor society for junior/middle school and high school students in the United States. Tri-M recognizes students that have gone above and beyond both academically and musically, while providing students leadership opportunities to make a difference in their community through music-based service projects.

Robert Scott, [email protected] 

Jennifer Malechek, [email protected] 

Wellness Every Little Step Club

Wellness Every Little Step's (WELS) goal is to promote the importance of physical and mental health and spread awareness of current health issues. The club aims to promote happiness, health, and comfort within the school community, enhancing the overall well-being of the school. 

 

YOVASO

Jeff Bergman, [email protected] 

Non-School Sponsored

Non-school sponsored clubs are not sponsored or endorsed by Gainesville High School or Prince William County Public Schools.

Aerospace Club

William Craig, [email protected]

Afghan Student Union

The GHS Afghan Student Union aims to inform, represent, and unite students by celebrating Afghan customs and culture. Open to all interested students, the club will promote cultural awareness through workshops, hosting guest speakers, and celebrating traditional Afghan holidays like Nowruz and Eid. By fostering a supportive community, we hope to create a space for sharing experiences and traditions, enhancing understanding and appreciation of Afghan heritage.

Vincent Oneill, [email protected]

African Student Association

Gary Powell, [email protected]

AI Innovators Society

Is a platform for members to share their interest in Artificial Intelligence, to learn about the field of AI, explore potential career paths, and promote skill development by engaging in community projects to educate others on the benefits of artificial intelligence.  

Daphe Patsalosavvis, [email protected] 

Arab Student Union

The Arab Student Union is a cultural enrichment club that aims to represent students of Arab origin that attend Gainesville High School and build community within GHS. In addition, members of the Arab Student Union participate in events hosted under Multicultural club such as Multicultural night and get to engage and learn about other cultures as well!

Daniel Bain, [email protected]

Amnesty International

Amnesty International is a global organization that advocates for human rights worldwide. Join GHS’s Amnesty International to make an impact on global issues!

Board Game & Card Game Club - BG&CGC

Abigail Vencil, [email protected]

Black Student Union

Alyse Coleman, [email protected] 

 

Boys Volleyball Club

This is a club where students will have the opportunity to improve their volleyball skills through drills to improve technical skills and playing. We will meet in the spring once boys' basketball is over. 

Ashley Heidtke, [email protected]

Cardinal Investors

Edwin Gamez-Hernandez, [email protected] 

Cardinals vs. Cancer

Cardinals vs. Cancer’s goal is to spread awareness of all forms of cancer and prevention methods that can help lower cancer incidence. CvC extends this goal to the community through additional service opportunities outside of monthly meetings.

Christian Student Association

Justin Jou, [email protected]

Crew

Sponsor - Andre ter Weele, [email protected] 

Criminology Club

Jeffrey Bergman, [email protected] 

Crochet and Knitting Club

Knitting and crochet club is a club that offers a community for students interested in learning and improving their knitting and/ or crochet skills while also interacting with new people involved in the same craft. The club plans to have new knitting and/ or crochet-based activities every meeting for students to participate in.

Justin Jou, [email protected]

Courtney Lewicki, [email protected] 

 

Dungeons & Dragons

Interested in the table-top role-playing game Dungeons and Dragons? Want to learn more about game play, campaign creation, and character design? Join D&D Club and come along on our adventures! Join D&D Club and come along on our adventures!

Justin Goultry, [email protected] 

 

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Daniel Bruton, [email protected]

 

Fashion Club

Justin Jou, [email protected] 

From Gainesville, With Love

Cynthia Baird, [email protected]

GHS Pickleball Club

Michael Baird, [email protected]

Girls Who Code

Girls Who Code is an international non-profit organization dedicated to closing the gender gap in tech. We hope to create strong and reliable leaders by building coding and interpersonal skills.

Crystal Wallace, [email protected] 

HER Power

Edith Rutz, [email protected] and Erika Nichols, [email protected]

Humane Society Club

The Humane Society Club aims to support local shelters and improve the lives of animals in need. We’ll raise awareness about animal welfare, donate needed supplies to shelters, and organize fundraisers to help animals in need. Join the Humane Society Club to make a difference for animals in our community!

Vincent O'Neill, [email protected]

Ice Hockey

Timothy DeFelice, [email protected]

Jazz Club

Daphe Patsalosavvis, [email protected]

Jewish Student Union

No Sponsor

Morgan's Message

Morgans Message is an organization working to shed light on the mental health struggles of student athletes. We cover topics that almost all student athletes face in their athletic careers, social lives, or academics, as well as provide strategies for coping and working through those feelings. We also work to spread positivity and support for those in our community.

Audrey Hoeg, [email protected]

Muslim Student Association

Alex Abdelwahed, [email protected] 

Parwa United

Brianne Trotochaud, [email protected]

Pride Club

Michael Rannells, [email protected]

Red Cross Chapters

The Red Cross Chapters is a club that focuses on preparing the community for any medical emergencies. Students will learn about First-Aid, CPR, natural disaster preparation, and will be able to apply their knowledge into real world scenarios.  

Nathan Nemerow, [email protected]

Rhythmic Remedies

Nathan Nemerow, [email protected]

Rock Band Club

Rock Club is a space for students to explore their musical talents, learn new skills, and collaborate with others who share a passion for music. From playing instruments to singing, students of all skill levels are welcome to join and jam together. While there are no membership fees, students are encouraged to bring their own instruments or equipment if they have them. Rock Club is a great opportunity to grow as a musician, work as a team, and have a lot of fun along the way!

Christos Zodiatis, [email protected]

Rock Revolutions

Christos Zodiatis, [email protected] 

Skeet & Trap Club

Robert Scott, [email protected]

Society of Female Scholars

Dedra Thomas, [email protected]

Spikeball Club

No Sponsor

Teens 4 Teens

Teens 4 Teens is a chapter of a parent organization, Teens 4 Teens. It is a non-profit organization that ensures high school students have access to adequate health and academic resources regardless of income, location, and age. The club will participate in various community service projects. No dues are required. All students are Welcome! Meetings approximately one time per month – 1st Wednesday.

Christos Zodiatis, [email protected]

UNICEF United

UNICEF Club is a student-led organization that advocates for children's rights by bringing awareness to global issues through service projects and education.  UNICEF club is a grassroots movement that partners with UNICEF USA to support the work of the United Nations Children's Fund.

Katie Wood, [email protected] 

Vietnamese Student Association

No Sponsor

Youth Feminist Society

The GVHS Youth Feminist Society is a club created to advocate for women's rights and health issues. In this club, we will have activities to spread awareness and organize drives / charities to donate to foundations for women, providing you with service opportunities. We will make our school and community a safer place for women.

Christos Zodiatis, [email protected]


VHSL Activities

Debate

Heather Hegg, [email protected]

VEX Robotics

In VEX Robotics, students design, build, and program robots to complete specific tasks and challenges. They collaborate in teams to solve problems, enhance their engineering skills, and compete in regional and national competitions. Through this hands-on experience, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork abilities.

Nicole Rhodes, [email protected]

Forensics

Heather Hegg, [email protected]

E-Sports

Esports is a team where students form teams and participate, train, and compete in organized gaming competitions with online and in-person spectators. The Virginia High School League recognizes it. The members can play League of Legends, Valorant, Overwatch, Splatoon, Rocket League, Mario Kart, Smash Bros, Chess Online, Street Fighter, Madden, and NBA 2k.

Arnel Dimla, [email protected]

Theater

Jessica Rodriguez-Snellings, [email protected] 

Scholastic Bowl

Mickey Orrell, [email protected]