Photos: Greenport High School's Class of 2016 Graduates in Joyful Ceremony

(See photo gallery below)

GREENPORT, NY - It was a day of tears and joy Sunday as Greenport High School's Class of 2016 graduated in a heartfelt commencement ceremony.

School Superintendent David Gamberg noted how special it was, to mark the 135th graduation ceremony for Greenport, and "to be in a place with a history of 135 years."

He thanked all the many who have contributed to the collective education of the 53 graduates. Reflecting on how life has changed since he graduated from high school, Gamberg said it was incredibly challenging to capture the essence of those profound changes.

With such an emphasis on technology and cell phones, Gamberg told the students to take the time to cherish the moments that make up a life, such as the sweetness of fresh mountain air. They might travel the world over with a cell phone but in doing so, could miss the meaning found in life's precious moments, he said.

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away," Gamberg said.

Gamberg asked all former Greenport High School students to stand. "Each of us has a part to play in the dance of life. We all stand on the shoulders of those who travel before us," he said.

Commencement speaker Dr. Omar K. Armstrong, M.S., D.D.S., Class of 1994, and son of former Greenport Village Trustee and Greenport Board of Education member Val Shelby, spoke from the heart to students. "Don't be scared. If you make the right choices, everything will be fine."

He said, candidly, that college life is often comprised of ramen noodles and, on a good day, Hamburger Helper. He thanked his mentors, including his mom, and said, "Make sure you have an open mind when a person who's successful in life gives you encouragement and advice."

The world has become global and a college degree is essential, he said. "It's not just a piece of paper. It's a quest for personal growth and knowledge. . .and knowledge doesn't come cheap."

Armstrong, who's earned two masters' degrees and a PhD, said while he did not grow up rich, he had the unending support of his family, and of himself. "You have to be able to bet on yourself," he said, by borrowing money and repaying student loans. He told the students that he did not party in college, and warned against pricey spring breaks and Louis Vuitton bags. "Don't half step. Be bold. Bet on yourself and get it done."

And he quoted his mother, who greatly shaped his life: "Plan your work and work your plan."

Armstrong urged students to write down a list of life goals for the next 10 years. "I still have that piece of paper," he said, adding that he'd achieved all his life goals.

Student addresses were given by Nicholas Wallace, Thomas Spackman, Ryan Costello, Salutatorian Rosemary Volinski and Valedictorian Liam Lieblein.

"You get out of life what you put into it. Graduation is a process that goes on every day of your life. If you can grasp that, you will make a difference," Volinski said.

Lieblein said wisdom is an often overlooked attribute. In his humorous, yet heartfelt address, the valedictorian told students to listen to others and look to practical knowledge and wisdom to navigate life's journey.

Class president Maxwell Mastrangelo led the class in a traditional tassel ceremony before the new graduates headed outside to toss their caps into the blue sky.