West Babylon School District’s Class of 2018 celebrated their commencement exercises on the evening of June 22 on the football field of the Junior High School. Surrounded by friends, family, board of education members and district administrators, the students marched onto the field to “Pomp and Circumstance.”
Senior High School Principal Dr. Ellice Vassallo welcomed the students and audience to the ceremony. “This class has developed a balance artistically, musically, athletically and academically,” she said. “You have shown determination and you have started many new traditions. You have shown kindness, compassion and empathy for each other and the West Babylon community. You have surpassed our expectations and I hope and believe you will take what you have learned and improve the world.”
After the band played “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America,” 2018 senior class president and valedictorian Eric Donohue addressed his classmates. “Remember how our class left their mark on the district and emulate that in your future endeavors,” he said. “Do something you love and be excited about leaving a small piece of yourself in your work.” During his valedictorian speech, Eric spoke to his classmates about failure. “Failure is an inevitable part of our lives and no matter what direction we decide, we should be ready to embrace it with open arms. Explore the road of failure because you can only learn from it.”
During his salutatory address, Joseph Ronzetti offered words of inspiration. “The future of this class is very bright,” he said. “Our graduating class possesses many traits and talents. We are a class of athletes, musicians, actors and artists. These gifts and talents will allow this class to provide historic transformations to the world.”
Board of Education president Lucy Campasano spoke to the students about their accomplishments and all they have done for the community and school. “You have risen to every standard and surpassed all of our goals and expectations,” she said. “You are the reason we love this community and country. It has been our pleasure to watch you. Sometimes to watch you succeed and perhaps a few times to be there when you failed. But always to watch you grow.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly commended the students for their leadership and character during their time in West Babylon. “I am truly honored to be standing here as your superintendent to celebrate the significant achievements that end a chapter in your life and start an exciting new one,” she said. “I’ve seen, heard and witnessed so many of your accomplishments. You have all been amazing leaders in our school. As you all walk out and begin a new chapter, I ask you to continue to be resilient. Continue to have a vision, a goal and a drive to pursue those goals.”
After a performance of the senior medley by the chorus, the band played the school’s song, “Like an Eagle.” Along with members of the board of education and district administrators, Dr. Vassallo presented the diplomas to each member of the Class of 2018. After moving their tassels, the graduates tossed their caps high in the air and were joined by family and friends on the field.