Bucks IU Graduates Ready To "Conquer The World"

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The Bucks County Intermediate Unit (Bucks IU) celebrated a milestone filled with pride, perseverance, and inspiration as 25 students from its educational programs graduated this month.

Most members of the Class of 2026 gathered with family,
friends, educators, and supporters on June 2 for an emotional commencement ceremony held in the Life Sciences Building auditorium at Delaware Valley University in Doylestown.

For the graduates, the evening represented far more than the completion of a school program. It marked years of hard work, personal growth, and determination to overcome challenges
while preparing for the next chapter of their lives.

“Graduation is an opportunity for our students to celebrate everything they have accomplished and to recognize how far they have come,” said Dr. Joanna Davis, Bucks IU Program Coordinator and member of the graduation coordination team. “We hope they leave knowing they have gained independence, built confidence, overcome obstacles, and made a lasting impact on those around them.”

The ceremony featured heartfelt speeches from two graduating seniors whose messages resonated throughout the auditorium.

“We worked hard to get here, and we should be proud
of ourselves,” said Kaden Wynne, a Pennridge School
District student and graduate of the W.O.W. (We’re Outstanding Workers) program in Perkasie
Square.

Speaking to his fellow graduates and their families, Wynne encouraged everyone to “always look for the rainbow” and remain hopeful about the future. “I hope we continue to learn new things, help others, and share our talents and kindness with the world,” he said.

Pennridge student, and W.O.W. Program graduate Kaden Wynne speaking at the Bucks IU Graduation Ceremony.

Graduating senior Amelia Venezia of the Central Bucks School District delivered an equally powerful message using her Smartbox Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device.

“Every person here is an inspiration,” Amelia told her classmates. “I can’t wait to watch us conquer the world. We are ready.”

Amelia reflected on the people who helped her reach this milestone, including her mother, who advocated for her ability to communicate, and the teachers who guided and encouraged her throughout her educational journey.

“School is where we learn the determination that will carry us through life,” Amelia said. “Our teachers allowed us to fall down and helped us get back up stronger.”

Central Bucks graduate, Amelia Venezia delivering her speech at the Bucks IU Graduation Ceremony.

The graduates’ words left a lasting impression on those in attendance, including Bucks IU Executive Director Dr. Mark Hoffman.

“I want to play a recording of their speeches on the way into work every day,” Hoffman said. “I found my motivation.”

Addressing the graduates directly, Hoffman added, “We are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished. Tonight is a celebration of your perseverance, your growth, and your future. Tonight is your night.”

The Bucks IU serves students with autism, emotional support needs, and multiple disabilities at educational programs located throughout Bucks County. Members of the Class of 2026 include students who have attended Bucks IU programs since early childhood, as well as young adults ages 18 to 21 who joined agency programs to develop workplace, community, and independent living skills through supervised work experiences, community-based instruction, and volunteer opportunities.

“At the Bucks IU, our mission is to empower students with unique needs by teaching essential skills, building confidence, and preparing them for meaningful futures,” said Dr. Lenny Greaney, Assistant to the Bucks IU Executive Director.

“Whether their next step involves employment, continued learning, independent living, community engagement, or new adventures yet to be discovered, we are proud to have been part of their journey.”

Morrisville graduate Timothy Wilson photographed with Bucks IU Board President John D’Angelo; Special Education Teacher Rebecca Pettineo; and Executive Director Dr. Mark Hoffman.

As the ceremony concluded, graduates moved their tassels from right to left, officially signifying their transition from students to graduates. They then received one final message of
encouragement from Lorie McCrory, Bucks IU Supervisor of Adult Programs and Services and member of the graduation coordination team.

“Never underestimate the impact you can make in this world,” McCrory told the graduates. “Your abilities, your voices, and your dreams matter. Continue believing in yourselves,
supporting one another, and pursuing every opportunity with confidence and pride.”

Following the ceremony, graduates and their families gathered in the building’s foyer to celebrate with photographs, cake, and refreshments.

Among those celebrating was Roseanna Gonzalez, whose daughter, Leslee Lopez, graduated from Project SEARCH.

“I admire her commitment, her strength, and everything she has accomplished,” Gonzalez said. “She is an amazing young woman.”

Gonzalez also expressed gratitude to the Project SEARCH staff who supported her daughter throughout the program. “They helped her every step of the way,” she said.

Before families departed, Bucks IU Board of School
Directors President John D’Angelo offered a reminder that graduation marks not an ending, but the beginning of a lifelong connection.

“While your children may be graduating today, the
support of the Bucks IU does not end here,” said
D’Angelo, who also serves on the Bristol Borough Board of School Directors. “You will always be a part of the IU family, and we will always be cheering you on as you move forward.