Caps Off to The Smithtown High School East Class of 2019

SMITHTOWN, NY - The 409-members of the Class of 2019 celebrated the completion of their academic journey at Smithtown High School East during the school’s 104th annual commencement on the football field on June 26.

Accompanied by the board of education, administration and faculty, the graduates processed across the field to the cheers of family and community to Edward Elgar’s "Pomp and Circumstance."

Senior class president Kelly McSweeney led the flag salute while the senior class concert choir, under the baton of Mark Hegreness, sang "The Star-Spangled Banner."

In his welcome address, Smithtown High School East Principal Dr. Kevin Simmons told the students, "Our future is bright with you at the helm of the community."

The Smithtown High School East Class of 2019 processed across the field during the school’s 104th annual commencement exercises

He also encouraged them to keep making informed decisions and choices, stay committed to their
beliefs, plan wisely, create their own destinies and enjoy their time with family.

Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Jennifer Bradshaw spoke about a Wharton School of Business study on whether givers or takers are more successful in life.

She noted that givers "have long-term advantages" and said givers are "not pushovers" and "do not keep score."

During his class address, Honor Speaker Thomas Fanning gave his peers words to live by to strengthen their character, such as integrity, perseverance, humility and resilience.

The Smithtown High School East senior class choir, under the baton of Mark Hegreness, performed during the school’s commencement exercises

"If all else fails, just be optimistic," he said. "You never know where your principles and audacity will take you."

During the senior class presentation, McSweeney reminisced about the last four years of high school.

"We need to remember why we are who we are," she remarked.

Dr. Simmons then presented the senior class to the community while the board of education, assisted by school counselors, called each of the graduates to the podium to receive his or her diploma.

Smithtown High School East graduation Honor Speaker Thomas Fanning gave his peers words to live by during the annual commencement exercises

The ceremony culminated with the senior class choir singing "Good Riddance (Time of Your
Life)," which was a tribute to parents and graduates, before marching off of the field to join
their families and friends.

The board of education, administration and faculty extend best wishes of happiness and success to the Class of 2019.

Smithtown High School East senior class president Kelly McSweeney reminisced about her peers’ four years of high school during her presentation to the Class of 2019.

Smithtown High School East graduates were excited to receive their diplomas during the school’s 104th annual commencement exercises

Photos courtesy of the Smithtown Central School District