Massapequa High School Graduation 2016

Members of Massapequa High School's Class of 2016 are now officially high school graduates.

The commencement ceremony took place on June 20 at Hofstra University’s David S. Mack Sports Complex.

The ceremony began with a performance of “The Star Spangled Banner” by senior members of the Chordettes and Crooners, and College American Sign Language (ASL) students.

During the event, the attendees heard from Class of 2016 President Jake Rosenblum, General Organization President Christian Buonamassa, Valedictorian Joseph Prusan and Salutatorian Juliet Remi.

Rosenblum started off by challenging his peers to “pursue your dreams and do not let the fear of failure deter you from them.”

Buonamassa then followed by approached the podium with a selfie stick and taking a photo with retiring Principal Dr. Barbara Williams before speaking about the many opportunities Massapequa High School offers students and the great potential his classmates hold for the future.

Prusan then spoke about his appreciation for different points of view among his classmates, which he found most compelling in his English class as students of various interests and talents fostered discussions that expressed “diversity of thought.”

Remi followed by telling her peers, “I’ve learned that a Chief is not merely an athlete, a scholar or an actor…A Chief is not defined by one trait, but one who grows to possess a variety of skills, talents and passions. A Chief is a leader and one I am confident will make a significant impact on this world.”

After the speeches, the Board of Education presented an Honor Award from each academic department to deserving students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement.

Special recognition was also given to eight members of the Class of 2016 who will serve our country as members of the United States Armed Forces.

In addition, five students have enlisted in the Army, Navy or Marine Corp and three students will attend the United States Air Force Academy, Unites States Merchant Marine Academy and the United States Military Academy at West Point.

After the diplomas were handed out to graduates, two honorary diplomas were presented, one by Superintendent Lucille F. Iconis to Williams and the other from Williams to retiring Dean of Students Patrick Howard.

Members of the Class of 2016 were awarded a total of $39.4 million in scholarships and will attend Ivy League colleges, such as Cornell University, Dartmouth College, and 163 other colleges and universities across 24 states and Washington D.C.

Congratulations to the Class of 2016!

Check out photos of the graduation courtesy of Massapequa Public Schools.

For a full list of all the 2016 graduates, click here. To check out photos of the ceremony shared on social media, click here.