The Locust Valley High School Class of 2025 commemorated the end of this chapter of their lives at their graduation on June 26. The 165 graduates took to the stage at Fred Smith Field and celebrated the achievement with their loved ones.
The graduation candidates strode onto the turf field in green and white gowns and with beautifully decorated caps, beaming with excitement, prepared for their future endeavors. Attendees were treated to performances from the graduation band/orchestra ensemble and the chamber singers.
As the ceremony began and the audience listened to the words of soon-to-be-graduates, it became clear how unafraid this group is to face the next steps in their lives. The Class of 2025 has only been strengthened through all the challenges they have faced throughout their academic careers.
“We don’t arrive to be the people we are without challenge, without help and without hurt, and that’s what high school is about: challenge,” Salutatorian Abigail Maselli told the crowd. “We are just beginning a life of challenge. A life of choice. A life of change.”
“You learned not to fear the inevitable; to stare challenges in the eyes and combat them with strength and grace,” student speaker Katherine Kuebler said. “You learned. You made a new friend. You found a new talent or a new flaw and you grew.”
“Let me offer you advice on what to do after your inevitable encounter with failure, even if it’s just a minor setback: never stop hoping,” Valedictorian Inshaal Abid urged her fellow graduates. “The hope I am talking about isn’t a feeling, rather it’s perseverance, it’s determination, it’s diligence, it’s endurance even in the face of everything that might make it feel nearly impossible to keep going.”
The staff, teachers and administration that have helped to mold these young people, and who have seen the ups and downs of their journeys know that this group will go on to achieve great things.
“Keep trying, accomplishing and exploring,” Principal Patrick DiClemente said. “Life is tough, but you are you. Consider your interests, set personal goals and chart a pathway towards the areas in life that make you happy.”
The Class of 2025 boasted many academic and community service accolades, including 94 members earning a place in the National Honor Society, 78 earning the Seal of Civic Readiness, 62 receiving a Diploma with Distinction and 24 IB Diploma candidates. Many students achieved feats such as these while competing and excelling as Falcons on the fields of play.
“Seniors, please take a moment today to give yourself credit for all the work you have done to make this moment a reality, and thank all the people who supported you through thick and thin,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kristen Turnow said. “Soak in this moment. It is one that you will remember forever.”
After turning their tassels and tossing their caps in the air, graduates sought out their friends and took in the moment. While their time as students here has concluded, they will always have a home here and will always be Falcons destined to soar throughout life.