Rye Neck High School Celebrates Class Of 2018

MAMARONECK, NY — The 122 members of the Rye Neck High School Class of 2018 celebrated their accomplishments and the completion of their secondary school experience during the 123rd commencement ceremony on June 21. The evening began with the school’s orchestra performing “Pomp and Circumstance” as the graduates proceeded into the ceremony to the applause of their friends, family, teachers and administrators.

In her remarks, Principal Tina Wilson welcomed the guests and praised the students’ impressive accomplishments, which include league and sectional championships, $57,500 in scholarships, 18,688 hours of community service and representing Rye Neck at 67 higher education institutions in four countries and 20 states.

“I have watched proudly as you have carried yourself with grace and supported one another, while never losing sight of the ‘big picture,’ ” Wilson said. “It is this perspective — this capacity for empathy and compassion — that will empower you and compel your success, as life will undoubtedly confront you with some unanticipated challenges.”

Quoting a poignant and timely message by renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking about the challenges to come, Wilson encouraged the students to live with tolerance and respect, be brave to overcome the odds and work together to make the world a better place.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Barbara Ferraro paid tribute to the students’ kindness and respect for others and their abilities as creative thinkers, problem-solvers and positive individuals whose actions have defined what it means to be a Rye Neck graduate. She encouraged them to cherish the close friendships they’ve made, the knowledge they’ve gained and memories they’ve created throughout their educational journey and embrace every opportunity that comes their way.

“You have the strength and self-awareness to realize your goals,” Ferraro said. “As you graduate from Rye Neck High School and embark on your life’s journey, remember to follow your passion, choose wisely and grasp hold of opportunity. When you do so, you will be certain to succeed, because you can.”

The graduates also heard from guest keynote speaker Andoni Elias Nava, a RNHS Class of 2008 graduate, as well as valedictorian Allie Liebmann, who reflected on her experiences throughout high school and encouraged her classmates to open their minds and learn something new from the people they meet throughout their lives. Salutatorian Olivia Dunne paid tribute to the accomplishments, unity and teamwork of the Class of 2018, and urged her fellow graduates to always fondly remember their experiences at Rye Neck.

“I’m so lucky to have been surrounded by people who taught me that true fulfilment is best found through experiences that connect you with others and make you realize that your contribution as a part of something bigger is what gives your actions value,” Dunne said. “My classmates inspire with their passion, empower with their compassion, and each and every one contributes his or her part to our whole by doing what he or she loves intensely and unapologetically.”

One by one, and after years of hard work and dedication, the students took hold of their diplomas before taking their first steps as Rye Neck High School alumni.

Photo caption: Rye Neck High School Class of 2018 commencement. Photo credit: Rye Neck Union Free School District.