226 Mount Vernon HS Graduates Honored As The Class of 2023 Celebrates

MOUNT VERNON, NY — A graduating class that saw more than its fair share of challenges had good reason to celebrate their accomplishments and a future worth looking forward to.

From the City of Mount Vernon School District:

In an early morning celebration on Friday, June 23, 2023, Mount Vernon High School students celebrated the 145th commencement. Families and friends filled the auditorium to support the 226 graduates that make up the class of 2023.

Principal Pauline Pearce opened the ceremony with words of encouragement.

"As you step out into the world beyond, I want to reflect on the values that you have imbibed during your time with us - community, character, and excellence," Pearce said. "These are the three pillars that hold our high school together, and I hope they will continue to guide you in your future endeavors. These values were instilled in you to prepare you for the challenges that you may face in the real world."

Acting Superintendent of Schools K. Veronica Smith then congratulated graduates on their hard work and dedication for the last four years. She offered advice and inspiration.

"As a fellow Mount Vernon High School alumna, I want to say how proud I am of this graduating class," Smith said. "Each and every one of you earned your diploma and spent much time striving and preparing for this exact moment and beyond. I want you to be proud of yourselves. This is a day you will remember for the rest of your lives."

Class of 2023 valedictorian Daren Lu moved to Mount Vernon in the midst of remote learning during his sophomore year. He remembered when he first entered the halls of the school his junior year and how happy he was to see his fellow classmates for the first time and begin to make friends.

"I love making connections," Lu said. "I feel so grateful to be able to stand in front of all of you today in person. Thank you, Mount Vernon High School, for the opportunities you have provided me."

Board of Education President Adriane Saunders also reflected on students' achievements.

"Throughout your educational career, I have seen some of the amazing things that you scholars have done in school and throughout the community," Saunders said.

Salutatorian Lesley Iyamu, a first-generation college student and a Nigerian immigrant who arrived in the United States less than five years ago, recognized the diversity that makes up Mount Vernon High School.

"We come from various corners of the globe, representing regions such as Africa like myself, the Caribbean, South America, Asia and more," Iyamu said. "Despite our different backgrounds, religion, cultures, and experiences, we are united by a common purpose."

Mount Vernon High School alumna and Mayor of Mount Vernon, Shawyn Patterson-Howard made sure students knew that the city was rooting for them.

"Your city loves you, we appreciate you, we need you and we will be here for you," Mayor Patterson-Howard said.

And likewise, Westchester County Executive George Latimer and Mount Vernon High School alumnus spoke to students.

"This day for you is a graduation and a commencement," Latimer said. "And what comes next is up to you and up to fate."

After the speeches were completed, school counselors called the graduates up to the stage to receive their diplomas.