Irvington High School Graduates Class Of 2019

IRVINGTON, NY — Members of Irvington High School’s Class of 2019 celebrated the completion of their secondary school experience during their commencement ceremony, held at Matthiessen Park June 22. The ceremony began with the school’s orchestra performing “Pomp and Circumstance,” and Irvington High School Principal David Cohen welcomed the guests and honorees, reflecting on the lasting memories and learning experiences the class has shared.

He also challenged the students to learn from their setbacks and see failure as a pathway to success.

“While failure is certainly not a goal to strive for, the journey of life will present each of us with impactful ups and downs, left turns and rights turns,” Cohen said.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kristopher Harrison paid tribute to the students’ impressive accomplishments and recognized the hard work and dedication they’ve demonstrated through their school work, extracurricular activities and personal lives. He encouraged them to continue to follow their passions and stand up for what they believe in and make their lives extraordinary.

“You demonstrated strong leadership by setting a positive tone within the school community and being role models for other students,” Dr. Harrison said. “More importantly, you have grown, learned and succeeded. You have made Irvington a better place.”

Students were also addressed by Westchester County Executive George Latimer, Board of Education President Michael Hanna, as well as class president Gerard Joseph Gregory III, who encouraged his fellow graduates to always remember their roots and each other.

“As we start anew at college, the extraordinary foundation that we developed here will fuel us to do incredible things,” Gregory said.

Valedictorian Braden Donoian expressed his gratitude toward all the family members and educators who have allowed him and his classmates to learn, grow and laugh. He reflected on the sense of community in Irvington and urged his fellow graduates to make a difference in the world.

“Find a cause that speaks to you and advocate for it,” Donoian said. “Vote for common sense gun laws. Pass anti-discrimination acts. Participate in climate strikes. Volunteer for midnight runs or soup kitchens. Whatever resonates with you the most, go do the thing.”

Signifying the conclusion of one chapter and the beginning of another, the students crossed the stage and took hold of their diplomas. After moving their tassels to indicate their graduation, they tossed their caps in celebration.

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