The Lindenhurst Class Of 2017 Graduates

The mix of rain and sun, which produced a rainbow, was the perfect weather to match the emotion of the day, as the Class of 2017 officially became the newest Lindenhurst High School alumni on June 23.

Through tears and smiles, the procession of students, led by the district’s administration, faculty and members of the board of education, made their way to the Edward F. Kienle Memorial Field as the high school band performed “Pomp and Circumstance.”

The Marine Corps JROTC presented the colors and class corresponding secretary Anthony Valentino led the salute to the flag. The senior members of the high school chorus sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and class vice president Matthew Byrne welcomed proud family, friends and distinguished guests.

Board of Education Vice President Mary Ellen Cunningham, presented the High School Student Council with a Pride of Lindenhurst Award and student Liam Shanley presented board trustee Edward Langone with a new digital message board, a gift from the Class of 2017.

Upon receiving the gift, Mr. Langone addressed the class of soon-to-be-graduates. He announced a new tradition to begin in 2018 in which the graduating class, donning cap and gown, would participate in a parade through the district’s elementary schools to an audience of kindergarten students. The parade would serve as a reminder to graduates of how far they have come and to demonstrate for the district’s newest students how far they could go.

Assistant Principal Daniel Noviello then introduced co-valedictorians Sofiya Yanyak and Ziad Sabry who presented beautiful commencement addresses to their peers. Class salutatorian, Yasmin Zohny, was then introduced by Assistant Principal James Campbell. She encouraged her classmates to take Lindenhurst with them wherever they go.

Board members then proudly presented diplomas to an eager class of students. After which, class president Nick Abbazio addressed his classmates, one last time before the turning of the tassels — a symbol of graduation — was performed in a final act of unity led by class secretaries Shannan Lydon and Anthony Valentino.

Photos courtesy of the Lindenhurst School District