The Tilles Center on Long Island University’s campus was full of applause and messages to stand up for yourself and others on Friday, June 27.
The Westbury School District honored its high school seniors with a graduation ceremony.
The night began with families and friends cheering on graduates as they made their way to the stage.
Danielle Daleus, Nyla Daleus and Shana Daleus, a set of graduating triplets, kicked the night off with the singing of “The Star Spangled Banner.” Behind them, one graduate sitting in the front row pulled out a Palestinian flag, showing his support for the country in its conflict with Israel.
David Zimbler, the principal of Westbury High School, led the commencement, saying that he and others throughout the district are proud of the seniors’ accomplishments.
“Strength doesn’t come from what you can do, it comes from overcoming the things you thought you couldn’t. Stay strong, Class of 2025,” he said.
Westbury Board of Education President Robert Troiano congratulated the students on their hard work. He listed other notable alumni from the high school, saying that the district has produced great leaders in its past and he hopes the same for the Class of 2025.
Adelina Santos, the school’s valedictorian, gave three life lessons that she had learned. She said the easiest way to navigate life is with someone else, that it’s one thing to recognize inequalities and another to amend them, and that the world will not wait for you.
“If you want something done, you must start today, and not tomorrow because tomorrow may be too late,” she said.
Santos said she acknowledged how privileged she was to receive an education, not something that everybody around the world can say. She specifically named the people in Gaza when talking about privileges.
Diego Monroy, the school’s salutatorian, spoke about how he had pushed through hard times during his high school career and how others in his class had done the same.
“Most of us have faced tough challenges, yet we all overcame those obstacles and are here on the stage tonight,” he said. “Keep fighting for your goals, keep showing up, keep working.”
Keynote speaker Alvin Williams cited the accomplishments of the graduating class and how the students understand the importance of relationships and how to maintain them.
Superintendent Tahira DuPree Chase joined the district when the Class of 2025 was entering high school. She talked about the students who faced difficult battles during their high school careers and how they are now ready to move forward.
“The world is heavy, we’ve got so many followers in the world. We need leaders. I’m looking at leaders on the stage this evening,” she said.
Ayesha Manzoor was a late addition to the list of speakers. She walked across the stage, telling the audience about her difficult battle with cancer and how she missed out on memorable senior-year memories due to her diagnosis.
“We often take so much for granted, having a body that will fight for us,” she said.
Chase then presented Manzoor with the Superintendent Award, calling her a symbol of resilience.
Nearly 400 Westbury students received their diplomas. The school recorded a 91% graduation rate.
