The students in the Ossining High School Class of 2022 had the good fortune to return to what can be classified as a routine school year, following a global pandemic that earlier in their academic career had them learning remotely. The culmination of their journey ended on June 18 when the class along with teachers, administrators and families and friends gathered for a “traditional” commencement ceremony, something that had not happened in more than two years.
The celebratory event, held at Pace University in Pleasantville, included all the fanfare one would expect — the class processing in to “Pomp and Circumstance,” the distribution of diplomas and the tossing of caps, all of which had been a long time coming following the modified ceremonies that took place previously.
“You are not afraid of change,” OHS Principal Stephen Hancock told the class, recalling how in their sophomore year the pandemic hit, causing major disruptions to their schooling. “Finally, this year you came back after a year and a half of constant change, you the Class of 2022 showed grit. I am proud of the example you have shown underclassmen. Our school is better because of you.”
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“You are destined to do great things,” the principal said.
Student speaker Nyasha Nyoni encouraged her classmates to be compassionate and remember how they’ve grown through the last four years.
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“To the Class of 2022, I hope you leave Ossining High School and remember what you’ve done and what you’ve accomplished,” she said.
Salutatorian Mary Ford recalled recently finding an old Park School yearbook where students were asked what they wanted to be when they grew up. The answers students gave then, doctors and lawyers, are now tangible goals, she said.
“We are on the verge of getting what we wanted,” she said. “Today is a celebration of reaching.”
Valedictorian Juan Carlos Desmaras put the challenges the class faced into perspective.
“The fact that we are here today is a testament to our persistence,” he said, referring to COVID-19 and its impact.
John DeAngelis gave the Class of 2022 Presentation, noting how the pandemic, while disruptive, offered opportunities too. For him, it allowed more time with his family and to enjoy new hobbies. He told his class they now know nothing is insurmountable and these types of situations provide opportunities that they should look out for moving forward.
The assembled crowd offered a moment of silence for the late Dream Shepherd, a classmate who passed away just before the start of her senior year. Her mother accepted her diploma.
Superintendent of Schools, Raymond Sanchez, told the class to “stand tall for what you believe in,” and encouraged them to pursue goals that are right for them.
“Stand tall,” he said, “And know the Ossining family will stand tall with you.”
