It was a bittersweet day for seniors at Locust Valley High School on Thursday, June 26.
The school held its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2025 on Thursday evening at Fred Smith Field. A total of 165 seniors walked in groups of two toward their seats while the high school’s symphonic orchestra performed “Pomp and Circumstance.”
Students, including Valedictorian Inshaal Abid and Salutatorian Abigail Miselli, dressed from head-to-toe in their green-and-white cap and gowns, walked towards their seats. Both had a chance to speak at the ceremony.
Abid, who will be studying psychology at Stony Brook University, said “every single one of us, no matter what we go on to do in the future, is guaranteed his failure in one way or another. But I think you already know that. So instead, let me offer you advice on what to do after your inevitable encounter with failure, even if it’s just a minor setback: it is to never stop hoping. And no, I don’t mean the kind of optimism you find in cliches.”
Maselli, who will be studying television production at Loyola Marymount University, talked about her experience in the school’s theater program.
“Theater to me is one of the most crucial experiences that helped me develop as a person, because it taught me how to step into other people’s shoes,” she said at the podium.
Students sat in white seats on both sides of midfield while parents sat on the track and the bleachers above.
their caps. Photo courtesy of the Locust Valley Central School District
About an hour into the ceremony, the graduates went up to the podium briefly to receive their diploma and shake hands with Principal Patrick DiClemente.
“Keep close those core values you have instilled within you,” said Superintendent Kristen Turnow directly to the students. “Stay kind, keep a thirst for learning, and never forget that your school community will always be your home.”
According to the school’s press release, 94 students were accepted into National Honor Society, 62 recieved a Diploma with Distinction, 78 earned the Seal of Civic Readiness, and 24 graduated with IB Diplomas.
Shortly after DiClemente requested that each student move their tassels from right to left, he left with a heartwarming message as the students prepared to move on to greener pastures.
“We extend to each of you a fond farewell and express our best wishes for your future. Congratulations on your graduation from Locust Valley High School!”
